DSS Arraigns Nine over Benue, Plateau Killings
The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday arraigned nine individuals before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged involvement in recent violent attacks in Benue and Plateau States.
Among those arraigned were two men from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State — Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi — who face a four-count charge in connection with the June 13 killings in Abinsi and Yelewata, Guma LGA, Benue State. Authorities alleged that the duo acted alongside others still at large.
Two other defendants, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, both from Guma LGA, Benue, were charged on three counts for alleged reprisal attacks in Ukpam village, which led to the destruction of property and the loss of 12 cattle.
In a separate case, Halima Haliru Umar, 32, from Faskari LGA, Katsina State, was accused of withholding critical information on the activities of one Alhaji Sani, identified as a suspected gunrunner, bandit, and kidnapper.
The DSS also brought a six-count charge against Silas Iduh Oloche from Agatu LGA, Benue, for alleged unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, in violation of the Firearms Act.
Two residents of Plateau State, Nanbol Tali, 75, and Timnan Manjo, were also arraigned for allegedly buying and selling two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles valued at N3 million. Another accused person, Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA, Plateau, faced a five-count charge over unlawful possession of pistols capable of discharging 9mm ammunition.
The DSS further revealed that a suspected gunrunner was separately charged for illegal possession of seven M16 rifles.
The arraignment follows a spate of deadly attacks that have rocked Benue and Plateau in recent months, leaving hundreds dead and displacing thousands. Notably, over 200 people were reportedly killed during coordinated raids on Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma LGA, Benue, on June 13.
On June 24, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun confirmed the arrest of 28 suspects linked to the Yelewata attack.
Security analysts say the court proceedings reflect the DSS’s renewed resolve to ensure accountability and to reinforce the rule of law through swift investigation and prosecution of suspects involved in violent crimes.
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