HOW CRIMINAL ELEMENTS IN THE ARMY, OTHERS ARE SELLING ARMS TO BANDITS - DSS TELL REPS

The Department of State Security (DSS) has blamed the worsening insecurity in the country on corrupt members of the armed forces and other security agencies, who allegedly sell arms to criminals, Daily Sun reports.

Speaking at a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives joint committee on Customs and Excise and National Intelligence, investigating the “frightening influx of small arms and light weapons into the country,” Director of Operations at the DSS, Godwin Eteng, claimed some agencies had, over the years, recruited former cultists and armed robbers, who get involved in illegal activities, including arms sales to criminals.

“We have conducted more than 27 operations and arrested more than 30 persons involved in the supply of arms and ammunition and some of them are serving security men,” he disclosed.

He said there was a case in one of the armouries belonging to one of the armed forces, where many pistols got missing with quantities of ammunition and all the pistols were new. “In the armoury, no place was broken into, but the weapons were missing. And we’re interested in knowing what happened.”

The director listed four states in the North-Central zone as the major sources of illegal arms.

“When we did our studies, we discovered that three-quarter of the arms used to cause the crisis in Southern-Kaduna, in Zamfara and Plateau states are coming from the following states: Nasarawa, Benue, Taraba and Plateau states.

“We found out that if you can carry out serious operations to affect the supplies, which is coming from these areas, it will seriously limit part of what is happening there,” the DSS director said.

On interventions to counter criminal gangs and prevent violent attacks, Ekeng disclosed that seven tactical teams were conducting the operation to apprehend culprits associated with the arms sales, an operation, which, according to him, is ongoing.

On how to solve the problem of illegal arms, he suggested legislations on prohibited firearms, more extensive vetting of those recruited into the security agencies, release of funds for logistics for border patrol personnel, electronic manning and deployment of cameras at borders and review of crisis management at local government levels.

Damgaiadiga Abubakar, Deputy Comptroller, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Hameed Ali, disclosed that there were 1,100 illegal entry points into the country, with only 97 approved border posts.

He said the Customs was short of equipment needed to stem the flow of weapons into the country, revealing that 2,671 pump action rifles had been seized from January to date, just as Customs personnel found culpable in the import of 661 pump action rifles had been dismissed from service and handed over to the DSS for prosecution.



According to him, lack of operational vehicles, fast moving boats, cutting-edge technology and advanced scanning machines at airports, seaports and border points were limiting the effectiveness of the Customs.

How SSS foiled IS attack on Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, others – Official

The State Security Service, SSS, has announced that it foiled a plan by the Islamic State of West Africa, ISWA, to announce major states in Northern Nigeria including Kano, Kaduna and the capital, Abuja.

The SSS, also called DSS, in a statement by a Tony Opuiyo, said the “plan was to conduct gun attacks and suicide bombing on selected targets in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Bauchi, Yobe and Borno States.”

The agency said a mastermind of the attack, Husseini Mai-Tangaran, had been on its radar since 2012 and was responsible for previous attacks in Kano and Yobe states.

Mr. Mai-Tangaran was arrested on August 31, and his arrest led to others involved in the plan, the agency said.

Read the full statement by the security service below.

DSS Nabs Commander of West Africa Terror Group
… Foils Several Attacks on Sallah Day
This Service wish to inform the general public that it has uncovered and foiled sinister plans by Islamic State of West Africa (ISWA) terrorists to cause mayhem and destruction that would have disrupted the Eid-Kabir Sallah festivities of 1st – 4th September, 2017. The plan was to conduct gun attacks and suicide bombing on selected targets in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Bauchi, Yobe and Borno States.

2. The mastermind of the operation is Husseini MAI-TANGARAN, a well-known senior ISWA commander who has been on the Service and Nigeria Army radar since 2012, when he spearheaded the armed attacks on the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone I, on 20th January, 2012, as well as other public places in Kano. MAI-TANGARAN was also responsible for the deadly explosive attacks against worshippers at the Kano Central Mosque as well as an attack on a military formation in Yobe State in 2015, which claimed hundreds of lives.

3. Under the banner of the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) which he belongs, MAI-TANGARAN, an IED expert had been prepping and priming others for the perpetration of suicide bombing attacks carried out by the group in the past within the North-East region.


4. He was arrested in Kano, on 31st August, 2017, and further exploitation, led to the arrest of one Abdulkadir Umar MOHAMMED by the Service on 2nd September, 2017, at Kantin Kwari Market in Fagge LGA, Kano. MOHAMMED was a fighter of the sect who left the conclave of the group in the Sambisa forest, to join ranks with ISMAILA towards carrying out the attacks being planned by the group.

5. Also, another accomplice in the plot, one Muhammad ALI was arrested on 3rd September 2017, at Sheka area in Kumbotso LGA of the State. Prior to his arrest, ALI was the financial courier of the group in Kano. He was one of the conduits through which funds and other material logistics were channelled to the group from foreign extremist elements/sponsors. Like Abdulkadir Umar MOHAMMED, ALI was involved in the plot to perpetrate the planned attacks in Kano and other States in the North during the just concluded Eid-Kabir celebration.

6. Furthermore, in a related tactical operation on 3rd September, 2017, the Service apprehended the duo of one Yahaya Mohammed ABATCHA and Yusuf MOHAMMED, along Top Medical Road, close to Mobile Quarters in Tunga area of Minna city, Niger State. ABATCHA and MOHAMMED are both fighters of the Habib Al-BARNAWI-led Islamic State of West Africa (ISWA). The duo are the leading elements of a cell of the extremist group and have been hibernating and furthering the doctrines of the group in the city. They were also to be responsible for operations in FCT Abuja, Kaduna and Niger States.

7. In Borno, Bauchi, Yobe and Gombe axis, based on credible intelligence, the Service in concert with sister security agencies, conducted a counter-terrorism operation on 29th August, 2017. This resulted in the apprehension of one Abdulkarim MOHAMMED aka BABA MAIGIWA, at Ajilani area of Jere LGA in Borno State. BABA MAIGIWA was apprehended based on intelligence which indicates his status as a spy/ double agent to the Boko Haram group in the North-East region. The suspect has been spying on targets in Maiduguri, particularly troops’ deployments/positioning and subsequently passing same to elements of the group in Sambisa forest, while also pretending to be working for the security forces.

8. Meanwhile, in a follow up operation after the arrest of Baba MAIGIWA, the Service further arrested the three (3) individuals who are currently cooperating in providing useful information on the diabolical plans of the group. Meanwhile, two (2) golf saloon cars, one ford vehicle which was serving as logistic vehicles have since been intercepted.

9. In a bid to stem the flow of arms and ammunition in the ongoing criminality and gangsterism in Benue State being perpetrated by Gana AKWAZA-led gangs, the Service arrested Moses PEVERGA in Abuja. Subject who is based in Lokoja, was trailed and apprehended after investigations revealed him to be a major source of arms supply to the GANA group and other criminal groups to perpetrate the violence in Benue and other adjoining States of Kogi and Nasarawa. The Service is pursuing other leads to arrest other individuals who are believed to be involved in these plans.

10. This Service wish to thank the general public for its support and cooperation in providing useful information on criminal and terrorist elements in their domain. The Service also wish to reiterate its stance that no matter how long, every perpetrator of violence and criminality against the Nigerian State and its law-abiding citizens, shall be made to face the full course of justice.




CREDIT: PREMIUM TIMES

U.S., UK Embassies react to SSS ‘arrest’ of Boko Haram suspects targeting their missions

The embassies of the United States and the United Kingdom in Abuja have reacted to Wednesday’s announcement by the State Security Service that five suspected Boko Haram operatives with ties to the Islamic State terror group were arrested while plotting to attack the two missions.

In the announcement, which was circulated to the media on behalf of the SSS by Tony Opuiyo, the secret police said the terror plots were thwarted following a nationwide crackdown on terrorists and kidnappers between March and April.

The SSS identified the suspected terrorists as Isa Jibril, Jibril, Abu Omale Jibril, Halidu Sule and Ahmodu Salifu. They were arrested between March 25 and 26, in Benue State and Abuja, the agency said.

“The group had perfected plans to attack the UK and American Embassies and other western interests in Abuja,” the SSS said.

In separate reactions to the announcement, the U.S. and U.K. Embassies said their respective governments appreciate the efforts of Nigerian authorities in neutralising terror threats.

“The United States appreciates the work of Nigerian security forces in fighting terrorism and keeping citizens and residents safe,” U.S. Embassy spokesperson, Russell Brooks, said in an email to PREMIUM TIMES. “Nigeria and the United States continue to have a strong partnership in countering violent extremism.”

Also responding to PREMIUM TIMES’ enquiries, Joseph Abuku, spokesperson for the U.K. Embassy, conveyed British government’s gratitude to Nigerian security agencies in protecting their diplomatic staff and premises, adding that they were “in regular contact with the Nigerian security authorities concerning potential threats to UK interests in Nigeria.”

Both spokespersons declined specific comments relating to the announced foiled terror attacks.

A diplomatic source, however, told PREMIUM TIMES that no email was circulated to personnel of the embassies about the development, and also raised questions about why it took days for it to be announced.

“That usually means the embassies have not been briefed or able to independently verify the claims of the SSS,” an official said. “It’s also curious that they had to wait several days to add such high-profile operation in what seemed like a routine press statement.”

How DSS foiled ISIS-linked Boko Haram attack on U.S, UK embassies

Director-General of Department of State Service, DSS, Mr Lawal Daura

The Department of State Security Service has said it has busted a deadly ISIS-linked Boko Haram terrorist gang that had planned to attack the United States of America, the United Kingdom and other western interests in Nigeria.

The DSS in a statement by Tony Opuiyo, said it prevented the fatal attacks between the 25th and 26th March, 2017, halting the malevolent gangs based in Benue State and the FCT, from striking.

The statement reads

The Department of State Services (DSS) wishes to inform the public about its continued effort in ensuring that the activities of Boko Haram insurgents, kidnappers and other criminal elements are drastically reduced or decimated. To this effect, their capabilities are daily being downgraded.

Between 25th and 26th March, 2017, the Service busted a ring of ISIS linked Boko Haram members based in Benue State and the FCT. The group had perfected plans to attack the UK and American Embassies and other western interests in Abuja. During the operation to thwart this plan, five (5) key suspects, namely: Isa JIBRIL, Jibril JIBRIL, Abu Omale JIBRIL, Halidu SULE and Amhodu SALIFU, were arrested.

Earlier, on 22nd March, 2017, at Fika, Yobe State, a 20 year old Boko Haram member, Adamu DATTI was arrested. He confessed his involvement in executing the sinister activities of the group.

In the month of April, two (2) suspected Ansaru kingpins, Ahmed MOMOH and Al-amin Mohammed JAMIN were arrested on 4th April, 2017 at Igarra, Akoko Edo LGA, Edo State. The duo were confirmed associates of Abu UWAIS, a main Ansaru kingpin terrorizing residents in Kogi and Edo States

While these terrorists are already undergoing detailed investigations, the Service stepped up its efforts at stamping out the menace of kidnapping. In Rivers State for instance, Daniel DIBIAMAKA was arrested on 24th March, 2017 at Obio/Akpor LGA, for his complicity in the kidnap of one Emmanuel Orji UKAH on 20th January, 2017. On that same day, Godsgift ISIOMA was arrested over his plan to kidnap one Dr. G.N DOUGLAS.

Determined to decisively deal with the ugly menace of kidnapping and increasing violence in Benue State, the Service, on 23rd March, 2017 at Bangaji, Gboko, Benue State arrested Daniel LORVE, a member of the Terwase AKWAAZA (aka Gana) led notorious kidnapping and terrorist group. Further investigation in this regard prompted a joint military/Police/Service operation which resulted in the raid on a farm suspected to have housed the armoury of AKWAAZA known for terrorizing Katsina-Ala, Logo and Ukum LGAs of the State. High caliber arms and ammunition were recovered from the scene notably; one (1) General Purpose Machine Gun, three (3) AK-47 rifles and one (1) SMG rifle, with large quantities of ammunition.

In Kogi State, the Service, on 29th March, 2017 arrested Abdulmojid MOMOH and Ahmed Tijani DODO at Adavi LGA for their involvement in kidnap activities. In a similar vein, the duo of Salau YAKUBU Ontinwa (aka General) and Abdulmajeed MUSA were arrested on 30th March, 2017 at the same Adavi LGA for similar kidnap crimes. Preliminary investigation showed that the trio are key members of the dreaded gang terrorizing innocent citizens and other travelers across the State. Prior to these operations in the State, a gun runner only identified as KAREEM was arrested on 27th March, 2017 for supplying weapons to criminals especially Abu UWAIS, the Ansaru kingpin and notorious kidnapper.

In furtherance of the Service’s efforts to check possession of illegal arms, it arrested Chukwujioke IGBRU at Ikwo, Ebonyi State in a joint military/DSS operation on 7th April, 2017. The suspect was alleged to be one of the masterminds of the clashes between his Ojenakpa community and neighbouring Isobo community in Obubra LGA of Cross River State. He was arrested in possession of a G3 rifle.

In Abia State, one Freeborn Chisom INNOCENT from Ikeduru, Imo State was arrested at Nzaocha Street, Aba for engaging in subversive activities against public servants. INNOCENT who is an ICT Expert used the social media, especially blogs to launch negative campaigns against the persons and offices of top government officials by telling lies against them and making them appear weak and incapable of holding their posts. He also used his platform to incite one ethnic group to violently attack another, thus creating tension and social disharmony.

It has also become instructive to let the public note that the Service has uncovered a racketeering network involved in the issuance of Certificates/Letters of indigeneship to persons from neighbouring African countries. The Boko Haram terrorist group has become part of this network and uses it to buoy its membership in Nigeria. A particular case was the arrest on 10th April at Damaturu, Yobe State of JALO, a Jos resident Guinean and Boko Haram suspect. It is also discovered that these non-Nigerians use their new indigene status to seek priviledges including admissions into the Country’s tertiary Institutions.

In order to check this ugly development, State and Local authorities are advised to be more circumspect in the issuance of these Certificates/Letters of indigeneship. While they are enjoined to always liaise with the appropriate Government organs, especially the Immigration Service to checkmate this trend, the Service is continuing with its investigations to fish out other members of this criminal network. The public is also encouraged to report any suspicion in this direction.

The Service is equally aware of the efforts being made by some individuals to create a deep sense of insecurity in some parts of the country simply for their own selfish interest. To this end, The Service wishes to reiterate its commitment to ensuring that peace prevails across the country and warns that it will not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law against defaulters, no matter how highly placed. The case of former Governor of Benue State, Gabriel SUSWAM, is typical. The Service has continued to hold him in line with the dictates of the law – more so that he has not cooperated on the issues concerning the recovery of large cache of arms at his facilities. While investigation is ongoing on this matter, the Service has valid detention warrants to keep him. He will be charged accordingly, once the investigations are concluded.

These successes have been achieved following the cooperation of well-meaning Nigerians who have volunteered credible intelligence. While such persons are commended and urged to do more for the good and safety of everyone, it is also important to advise people who are desirous of creating problems to desist from doing so. All law abiding citizens and residents are encouraged to go about their normal businesses without fear as the Service and the appropriate agencies of government will offer them the needed protection at all times.

Source Vanguard

Benue state govt sends Justice Kpojime report to DSS ,as embattled fmr gov Gabriel Suswam faces fresh probe,

The Benue State government had referred the report of the Commission of Inquiry against Suswam and 51 others to the DSS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.
While the DSS was considering bail for Suswam, the Benue State Government and others submitted six petitions against him.
Two of the petitions border on the over 240-page report of the Justice Elizabeth Kpojime Commission of Inquiry into state finances from 2007 to 2015 and the alleged misuse of a N4.5billion sourced from capital market.

The Department of State Security Service(DSS) confronted Dr. Gabriel Suswam with the six new petitions.
The case haul against the governor has now risen to seven, following the initial investigation of the ex-governor’s link with a militia leader in the state.
Suswam, who has been finding it difficult to meet bail conditions, has, however, begged the DSS for liberal terms at least to regain freedom to prepare his defence.
But he is allowed access to his wife, Yemisi Suswam, and his counsel, Mr. J. B. Daudu (SAN), who was a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA).

The ex-governor was said to have been emotional when his wife visited him on Thursday and said: “Help me beg the DSS and others to grant me bail on liberal terms. I need bail.”
According to findings by our correspondent, Suswam has not been able to give the DSS “credible clues” which could lead to the arrest of a militia leader, Terwaze Akwazza (a.k.a Gana), who has held three local government areas captive in Benue State.

The local government areas are Logo, Katsina-Ala and Ukum.
Akwazza was alleged to have either relocated to some parts of Cross River State or Rivers State.

A top source, who spoke in confidence, said: “The case of Suswam is complex because of the security implications of not apprehending the Benue militia leader, Terwaze Akwazza (a.k.a Gana). He has not been able to provide clues on how to get the suspect that is terrorizing state. He has consistently denied any link with the militia leader.

“While he is grappling with the security factor behind his detention, the DSS  received six new petitions against him, including allegations established against Suswam by the Justice Elizabeth Kpojime Commission of Inquiry into state finances from 2007 to 2015. The panel was set up by Governor Samuel Ortom.
“Now, the burden is on Suswam to act as fast as possible to answer all the allegations in the six new petitions. The DSS has a valid warrant from court to detain him.

“The DSS has been fair to him in custody. He is allowed unfettered access to his wife and counsel. The onus is on him to prove his innocence. As soon as he is able to respond to all the allegations and if he cooperates with the DSS to address security challenge in Benue State, he will be released. The service might also charge him to court.”
The over 240-page report alleged that Suswam and many of his appointees, including civil servants, mismanaged the resources of the state.

Those blamed include Hon Solomon Wombo, Omodachi Oklobia, Emmanuel Atini, Asen Sambe, Isaiah Ipevnor, Hon Paul Biam, Aza Biam, Maria Iyortyom, Michael Oko Agbam, Miss Ajuma Olokpo and Abel Musa of GTB.

Others are Mohammed Kabir Rago, Hon. Terna Kester Ikyenge, Hon Yerfa Atoza Hindan, Terna Iyorkyaan, San Carlos Benue Farms/Barr Tyokegh, Christian Aba (aka Mad Lion), Sunday D. Umoru, Ruth Ijir, Kpaapka, Andrew Ayabam, among many others.
Some of the corporate bodies fingered in looting Benue State include: Ashitech and Ashi Foods, Carlos Benue Farms, SCAMPT Nigeria Ltd, among others.

The panel recommended that 52 individuals and 10 corporate bodies should refund over N107 billion to the coffers of the state government.
It also recommended the deeper investigation and possible refund of over N44 billion from transactions they found not in compliance with the laid down financial guidelines.

The panel said N1. 21 trillion accrued to the state from about 27 identified sources out of which N802 billion was appropriated, while N219 billion was expended but not appropriated.

The former state governor, former Commissioner of Finance, Omadachi Oklobia, former Special Adviser on Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Solomon Wombo and two former permanent secretaries, Emmanuel Atini and Asen Sambe, Messrs Isaiah Ipevnor, a former accountant of the Bureau were alleged to have diverted local government funds amounting to N51, 559,859,968.00 into personal use.
Suswam is already facing trial before a Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged N3.1bn fraud relating to the same issue raised by the Justice Kpojime-led probe panel.

REVEALED: How DSS nailed Magu a second time

For a second time, the senate on Wednesday rejected the nomination of Ibrahim Magu as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This was the climax of weeks of anxiety and speculations.
However, signs that Magu’s nomination as EFCC chairman would be rejected became clear on Tuesday when the Department of State Services (DSS) wrote to the senate affirming its security report, which indicted him of corruption.
A source had told TheCable Magu’s appointment as EFCC chairman would not be confirmed owing to the DSS report.

On Tuesday, Senate President Bukola Saraki announced that a confirmation hearing would be held for him.
This was weeks after President Muhammadu Buhari had asked the senate to reconsider its decision to reject Magu’s nomination.
The senate first rejected Magu’s appointment on December 15, 2016, citing the DSS security report.

In the report, Magu was accused of living in a house paid for by a “corrupt” businessman. He was also accused of extorting money — through a proxy‎ — from suspects.

“Investigation on the chairmanship of Magu revealed that in August 2008 during the tenure of Farida Waziri as the commission’s chairman, some sensitive documents which were not supposed to be at the disposal of Magu were discovered in his house. He was subsequently redeployed to the police after days of detention and later suspended from the police force,” the report read.

“In December 2010, the Police Service Commission (PSC) found Magu guilty of action prejudicial to state security – withholding of EFCC files, sabotage, unauthorised removal of EFCC files and acts unbecoming of a police officer, and awarded him severe reprimand as punishment.

“Notwithstanding, sequel to the appointment of Ibrahim Lamorde as chairman, he made the return of Magu to the EFCC a top priority. Magu remained a top official of the commission until he was appointed to succeed Lamorde.

“Magu is currently occupying a residence rented for N40m at N20m per annum. This accommodation was not paid [for] from the commission’s finances, but by one Umar Mohammed, air commodore retired, a questionable businessman who has subsequently been arrested by the secret service.

“For the furnishing of the residence, Magu enlisted the Federal Capital Development Authority to award a contract to Africa Energy, a company owned by the same Mohammed, to furnish the residence at the cost of N43m.”

The report also said Magu regularly embarked on official and private trips through a jet owned by the “corrupt businessman”.

“Investigations show that the acting EFCC chairman regularly embarked on official and private trips through a private jet owned by Mohammed.
“In one of such trips, Magu flew to Maiduguri alongside Mohammed with a bank MD who was being investigated by the EFCC over complicity in funds allegedly stolen by the immediate past petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke.

“Furthermore, the EFCC boss has so far maintained a high-profile lifestyle. This is exemplified by his preference for first-class air travels. On 24 June, 2016, he flew Emirate airlines first-class to Saudi Arabia to perform lesser hajj at the cost of N2.9m. This is in spite of Mr President’s directive to all public servants to fly economy class.

“Magu has fostered a beneficial relationship with Mohammed who by his confession approaches clients for possible exploitation, favours and associated returns.”

Owing to the development, the president had directed Abubakar Malami, attorney-general of the federation, to investigate the allegations.
Malami submitted his report at the end of the assignment. The president then wrote to the senate re-nominating Magu.

However, the details of the investigation were not revealed in the president’s letter to the senate.
Also, the president did not say why the rejection of Magu’s appointment should be reconsidered in view of the allegations.
After Magu’s re-nomination, the senate, on March 7, wrote to the DSS for another security report on him.

But the secret police re-sent its earlier report indicting the anti-graft czar of corruption. The report got to the upper legislative chamber at 5pm on Tuesday.

The 14th paragraph of the report read: “In light of the foregoing, Magu has failed integrity test”.
TheCable learnt that the senate was hamstrung because of the DSS’ insistence that Magu was not fit to head the anti-corruption agency. Hence, it rejected his nomination a second time.

Just In : DSS reportedly releases,fmr Benue state Gov,Gabriel Suswam.

There are strong indications emerging that the Department of State Service (DSS) have released former gov of Benue state ,Gabriel Suswam.
The report, which has been making the rounds and yet remains unconfirmed, has it that the operatives of the security police are done with their interview and have told him to go home.
The secret police had invited him for interrogation based some fire arms allegedly discovered in his property,plus other items.

More details soon.

Bail Bid Flops As Suswam Remains In DSS Custody

Following his failed bid to secure bail, Gabriel Suswam, former governor of Benue State, on Monday, is reported to have spent his second day in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Frantic efforts were made earlier in the day by the former governor’s friends and associates to secure bail but the moves all failed.
There is the possibility of the Security agency handing him over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to investigate and possibly prosecute him for the vast property and valuables discovered in his possession.

DSS arrest
On Sunday, the DSS informed the nation of the arrest of Suswam following the discovery of what it called ‘incriminating items’ from two exotic cars belonging to the former governor which it also confiscated. The items found by the DSS were
The items found by the DSS were a Glock pistol with two magazines and a total of 29 rounds of ammunition; a mini-Uzi with two magazines containing 10 rounds and 4 rounds respectively; 42 extra rounds of ammunition contained in a pack; and one AK-47.

Other items recovered were 21 Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and one Offer of Statutory Right of Occupancy; 23 luxury designer watches; and 45 keys to various exotic cars.
”Following this discovery, the Service launched further investigations which revealed that the cars and the recovered items belong to the former Governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam who has already been invited by the Service and presently helping in the investigation.
“It is in the light of this latest development that the Service wishes to sound a note of warning to persons and groups that it will no longer tolerate any acts of lawlessness by those who ought to be law-abiding and responsible citizens,” The DSS said.

DSS detains five personnel over teachers’ brutalisation in Cross River state

Five personnel of the Department of State Services have been detained in connection with the brutalisation of teachers at the Federal Government Girls College in Calabar.

According to Punchng, the five officials were being detained in the cell of the Cross River State Command of DSS in Calabar.

A DSS source, who craved anonymity, told the news platform that the affected personnel were arrested almost immediately the incident occurred on February 2 for going against the rules and regulations of the service.

The source said that affected personnel did not get any official directive to go to the school.
Apparently embarrassed by the perceived unprofessional conduct of its personnel who participated in the inglorious act, the source said that the DSS’ top hierarchy took the decision to detain five of its security personnel who allegedly participated in the invasion of the school.

He said, “Their arrest and detention was an indication that the DSS has officially commenced investigations into the matter in line with its set out standards of arresting such issues that involves their personnel.”

The source, however, refused to disclose the identity of those arrested.

He also alleged that the management of the FGGC Calabar had yet to formally lodge any complaint about the brutalisation of its staff.

“As we speak, five of our security personnel are in detention and we have commenced investigation into the incident that happened at the FGGC Calabar. Those who went there did not have official directive to go there.

“The school has not yet reported what happened to us. The matter is going to be thoroughly investigated and if any of our colleagues is found culpable, the person will be punished according to the laws regulating the conduct of DSS staff.

“The DSS remains a law-abiding organisation and will never condone any act of lawlessness from any of its men and officers,” he said.

Recall that academic activities at the Federal Girls’ College on Febraury 2, 2017 were abruptly brought to a halt when an operative of the secret police identified as, Grace Loveth Asuquo had driven to the school with a team of fierce looking and gun tottering DSS officers and displayed extreme and mindless brutality on all male teachers they could lay hands on, after her daughter, Loveth Asuquo had called her and reported that she was beaten by a Civic Education Teacher, Mr. Owai Owai, who is a member of the school’s Disciplinary Committee.

Pictures. G.O of Omega Fire Ministries Apostle Suleiman heading to DSS office this morning.

The General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, was pictured this morning on his way to the Department of State Services headquarter in Abuja.

See photos:








Photo credit Punch ng.

DSS implicates governor in plot against Fed Govt

The Department of State Security Services (DSS) yesterday implicated a Southsouth governor in a subversive plot against the Federal Government.

It also accused the governor of allegedly sponsoring those behind demanding the resignation of its Director- General, Mr. Lawan Daura.

The governor was said to be under investigation also for sponsoring violent demonstration.

A top official made the disclosures at a confidential briefing in Abuja against the backdrop of a protest on Monday by a pressure group, Lawyers in Defence of Democracy.

The official said unknown to Nigerians, the Monday protest had a hidden agenda.

The highly-placed source said: “The Monday protest by the so called Lawyers in Defence of Democracy was misplaced. We believe that that protest by the group, claiming to be acting on behalf of some aggrieved lawyers and Human Rights activists, has other hidden motives.

“The protesters’ main grouse was that some lawyers who are members of their group are being detained by the DSS. I wish to state categorically that no lawyer is in our custody. I repeat, no lawyer is being detained in DSS custody.

“The names like Ugochukwu Apumaga, Emeka Dibia and Ejike Nwachukwu that were paraded on Monday by the protesters as members of their group are not lawyers.

“They were arrested by the service for their role in the botched moves by a South-South Governor to orchestrate violent demonstration with inciting and subversive posters.

 ”Ikenga Ugochukwu was arrested with the trio.This is no longer secret because it was made public by the Service.

“In any case, the Service is not known to be in denial of any arrest it had ever made as it always avail members of the public of those it arrested and the reasons.

“It is therefore curious and even strange if these organizations being mentioned are not pseudo organizations being used by Ikenga, to carry out paid jobs.

“As far as the Service is concerned, there is no lawyer in detention and if these persons mentioned are lawyers, it will be helpful if any discerning person can inform the Nigerian public when they were called to the Bar or which law schools or Universities they attended.”

The DSS attributed the calls for the removal of its DG to the alleged subterranean activities of the governor.

The official added: “The entire campaign of calumny and calls for the resignation of the DG DSS are not supported with facts.

“They represent a familiar pattern from Ikenga, who is being sponsored by a South-South governor (his benefactor in Rivers state) to orchestrate violent demonstration to paint security agencies and government in bad light.”


Source The Nation

Fayose foils attempt by DSS to arrest Apostle Johnson Suleiman PHOTOS.

Operatives from the Department of State Security on Wednesday morning stormed Midas Hotel, Iworoko, Ado-Ekiti, to arrest man of God, Apostle Johnson Suleiman's arrest. Suleiman is hosting a two-day crusade in Ado Ekiti tagged ‘Help From Above’, his first in Ekiti State. Sources said that they came in a Hilux truck, with armed policemen.

The development we learned is not unconnected with Suleiman's instruction on Sunday 15th January 2017 to his private security guards that if any Fulani intruder is noticed around him, such should be killed. But the state governor, Ayodele Fayose, who also attended the opening of the two days crusade, we learnt, got wind of the DSS presence at the hotel where Suleiman was lodged, raced there and prevented him from being taken away.

Speaking after the scenario, Apostle Suleiman insisted that it was the handwork of the federal government and he would not be cowed.

“I’m not a partisan person, I’m not a politician. I’m sent by my Father to deliver messages and I’ll not be intimidated. "Suleiman added that, “for attempting to arrest me for speaking the truth in one day, the damage they had done to themselves would take one year to repair.”  

” It should be noted that the Apostle gave the order based on security reports he reportedly received that some Fulani herdsmen were plotting to attack him over his stance on their activities, particularly because he is considered being ‘too vocal’ on the killings of Christians by suspected Muslim terrors across the country. 

Apostle Suleiman therefore wants the world, Nigerians and the Christian world to know that it is the Nigeria’s presidency that is after his life for his stand against a system that oppresses the Christianity,” reads a statement from the church.

Meanwhile, members of the Omega Fire Ministries in 51 nations of the world have reacted to the harassment of their president and founder, threatening to stage protests at the countries’ embassies to register their displeasure, calling the development ‘war against Christianity.'

Operator of fake SSS boss’ Facebook account arrested

Operatives of the Department of State Services have arrested one Kelvin Nwanaji, who was accused of operating a fake Facebook account in the name of the Director-General of the Service, Mr. Lawan Daura.
Nwanaji, who was said to have been arrested at Ojo, Lagos State, was accused of using the fake Facebook account to dupe unsuspecting job seekers.
A statement issued by the spokesperson for the DSS, Mr. Tony Opuiyo, in Abuja on Friday, said that further investigation was ongoing to arrest Nwanaji’s collaborators.

He said, “Nwanaji had opened a Facebook account in the name of the Director-General of the SSS and had been using it to defraud unsuspecting members of the public, who he promised jobs in the service.

“His arrest was sequel to investigation arising from the messages circulating in the social media that the service was recruiting.

“Further investigation is being undertaken to arrest all those connected with this scam.”

Opuiyo asked the public to disregard the falsehood, which originated from Nwanaji, saying that the service was not embarking on any recruitment exercise currently.

He said it should be noted that employment into the “Service is conducted in the most transparent manner in line with laid down procedures and processes.”

He asked the public to be wary of fraudsters whom he said may use this opportunity to extort money from them.

Meanwhile, Opuiyo also said that the service rescued four oil company kidnap victims from their abductors on Friday at White House Estate, Rumukwurushi, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He alleged that the kidnap gang was led by one Emmanuel Eyo, who was earlier arrested in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Opuiyo said that during the rescue operation which was supported by the military, a staff of the service sustained gunshot injuries in his leg while three members of the gang were killed in the exchange of fire.

He listed items recovered from the gang to include one AK47 rifle, one magazine containing 59 rounds of 7.5mm ammunition and three locally made pistols.

Similarly, Opuiyo added that one Alkasim Salisu, an alleged Boko Haram member was arrested at Rigasa area of Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Salisu, he said, had fled the military operation in Yobe State to settle in Kaduna where he and his cohorts were said to be planning to launch attacks on select targets in Kaduna metropolis including the railway station.

He said the latest successful operations demonstrated the service’s effort towards providing a safe and peaceful environment for law abiding citizens and residents to go about their legitimate businesses.

Opuiyo said the service would not relent in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities and therefore encouraged all and sundry to support security agencies by promptly reporting security breaches to them.

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Fmr Spokesperson Of DSS,Marilyn Ogar Drags FG To Court Over Sack.

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[Video] Minister Dambazau Has His Shoes Cleaned By SSS Officer At A Public Function.

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DSS Arrests Dasuki

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DSS Storms Wadata Plaza( PDP Secretariat).

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PDP Send More Evidences That DSS DG Is An APC Member (photos)

 

The PDP  media group has sent evidences insisting that the current DSS Lawal Daura  is an APC member. More photos after the cut...

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