The Department of State Services (DSS) on Thursday in Abuja warned members of the public to be wary of terrorists’ attacks as they herald the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
Political Economist NG reports that the spokesman of the agency, Dr Peter Afunanya said that reports reaching it indicated plans of attack on worship and recreational facilities before and during the festivities.
Afunanya said the reports are corroborated by the recovery of primed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from suspected terrorists during a joint operation by the department and its sister security agencies.
He stated also that the department conducted raids on criminal hideouts in Kogi and Nasarawa states on Monday in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Police Force.
Political Economist NG reports that Afunanya explained that the operation along Abuja-Keffi Expressway in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State led to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner.
He stated that 486 rounds of 7.62 x39mm calibre ammunition, 22 primed IEDs, N31,500 and one Volkswagen Golf car with registration number RBC202XA were recovered during the operation.
He stated also that the joint security team raided the hideout of a one-time jail breaker and notorious gang leader at Ejule in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi on Thursday.
The suspect’s gang members engaged troops in a gun duel and the gang leader was neutralised while others fled, he added.
Afunanya also stated that items recovered at the scene were one AK47 rifle with three fully loaded magazines, six locally-fabricated weapons, two phones and charms.
He enjoined operators and patrons of public places, including markets and malls to be watchful and report any suspicious movements and persons to relevant security agencies.
Afunanya assured that the DSS would continue to partner with sister security agencies for necessary proactive drills to frustrate criminals and their activities.
Political Economist NG reports that the Federal Government is expected to declare June 28 and 29 as public holiday for this year’s Sallah celebration.
