DSS Arraigns Nine Suspects Over Benue, Plateau K!llings

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned nine suspects for their alleged roles in the recent k!llings in Benue and Plateau States.

The suspects were brought before the Abuja federal high court on Wednesday.

DSS also charged a suspected gunrunner with possession of seven M16 rifles.

Two suspects — Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi — both from Awe LGA in Nasarawa state, are facing a four-count charge relating to the k!llings in Abinsi and Yelewata village, Guma LGA of Benue state.

They were alleged to have committed the offence alongside others still at large on June 13, 2025.

Two other suspects — Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede — both from Guma LGA of Benue, were charged on three counts over alleged reprisal attacks against the initial terror suspects, and destroying a private property which resulted in economic loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam village, Benue state.

In a separate charge, Halima Haliru Umar, a 32-year-old woman from Faskari LGA, Katsina, was charged with four counts for allegedly concealing information about Alhaji Sani, a suspected gunrunner, bandit and kidnapper.

The DSS also filed a six-count charge against Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA in Benue, accusing him of unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, without a licence — an offence said to be punishable under section 27 of the Firearms Act.

Also Nanbol Tali, a 75-year-old man, and Timnan Manjo — both from Plateau state — were also arraigned on a four-count charge on allegations of engaging in the buying and selling of two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles without licence for N3 million.

Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA, Plateau state, was arraigned on a five-count charge of unlawful possession of two locally fabricated pistols and firearms capable of discharging 9mm ammunition calibre.