In a series of raids conducted on May 27th, security operatives including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force nabbed 5 suspected terrorists in separate operations in Kaduna and Kano.
Dr. Peter Afunanya, the Public Relations Officer of the DSS, reported that the raids were conducted in the early hours of the morning. During the operation in Kaduna, the terrorists resisted arrest and used Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) against the security forces. One of the terrorists wore a suicide jacket and detonated himself while three others were captured.
During a search of their accommodation in Kaduna, two suicide jackets, one AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and a laptop were uncovered after the police defused other IEDs. In Kano, two suspects were captured, along with 11 mobile phones, two hand grenades, a fully charged AK-47 magazine, two empty AK-47 magazines, a Peugeot 307 car, and an ID card belonging to an escaped suspect.
It will be recalled that Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, had previously warned that terrorists and bandits may exploit the transition period leading up to May 29th to unleash bloody attacks across the nation if the security forces did not take necessary measures.
With the forthcoming inauguration, it is essential to maintain a high level of security to prevent any form of violence or attack. This operation is a clear indication of the security forces’ readiness to ensure the safety of lives and property.
The DSS has pledged to provide more information on the arrested suspects as further investigations are conducted.