The State Security Service (SSS) has reported a security alert to the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) regarding a potential plot by bandits to attack the Abuja-Kaduna train.
The security alert was issued in a memo signed by R.N. Adepemu, the Director of the SSS, FCT Command, on Thursday.
Furthermore, the SSS has urged train passengers to remain vigilant and prioritize their personal safety.
According to the memo, “Intelligence report indicates an impending threat to the seamless operation of the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS).
This development arises from a plot by a coalition of banditry syndicates to attack the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service, with the aim of kidnapping passengers on board for ransom.”
Recognizing the inherent threat and the need to prevent any breach of security along the AKTS, the SSS advises that existing security measures within and along the route be intensified.
The memo also recommends the implementation of the following countermeasures to proactively address the impending threats:
i. Air surveillance patrol
ii. Surveillance on the rail track
iii. Military checkpoint/patrol
iv. Police checkpoint/patrol
v. Security raid operation to be conducted around Byazhin, Jibi, as well as the ja forest
vi. Nigeria Police Mobile Force (NPMF) operatives need to be equipped with walkie-talkies to provide sustained escort services on the train;
vii. Increased deployment of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel with walkie-talkies to assist in providing escort duty;
viii. Establishment of a crisis response team to ensure a quick response time in the event of an attack;
Lastly, the memo stresses the importance of intelligence sharing among all relevant stakeholders.
The SSS cautions that while the mentioned threat is not yet public, it has the potential to increase concerns over the safety of lives and property along the AKTS corridor.
Therefore, discreetly managing the provided intelligence is crucial, particularly in light of previous fatal attacks along the route that resulted in casualties, abductions, and prolonged hostage situations before eventual release.”
