DSS: High profile terrorists regrouping in north-west | Five arrested in Kano, Kaduna

The Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian army, and the police force have arrested five suspected terrorists during a raid on their hideouts in parts of Kaduna and Kano states.

Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson, said the raids were simultaneously carried out in the early hours of Monday.

He said during the operation in Kaduna, the terrorists deployed improvised explosive devices (IEDs) against the troops.

He said one of the terrorists, who wore a suicide jacket, blew himself up while three others were arrested.

The DSS spokesperson said the police diffused the remaining explosives.

Afunanya said items recovered during a search of the group’s accommodation were two suicide jackets, one AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and one laptop.

“In Kano state, two suspects were arrested while recovered items were a pistol, 11 mobile phones, two hand grenades and one fully charged AK-47 magazine,” Afunanya said.

“Other items recovered are two empty AK-47 magazines, one Peugeot 307 car, and an ID card belonging to a suspect that escaped.”

Afunanya said intelligence had revealed that high-profile terrorist targets were regrouping in the north-west to carry out “dastardly acts” in the area.

He said the military operations in the north-east are pushing the insurgents to the north-west and north-central where they are establishing active cells.

“The Service commends the Nigerian Military and Police for their resilience and support which led to the success of the operation. The sustained interagency synergy is, without doubt, a game changer in counter-threat actions,” he added.

“Also, the Service wishes to state and very clearly, that it will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to rid the nation of criminal elements, particularly at this transition period and even beyond.

“This is more so that certain persons are desperate to undermine the process. But the Service will resist this and ensure a seamless event.”

Afunanya said the DSS would continue to cooperate with stakeholders to achieve a peaceful environment.