The Department of State Services has arraigned four suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra group over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping and killing of a DSS officer, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh. The suspects, Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa, and Chigozie Olisa, were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and kidnapping.
According to the prosecution, the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the abduction of Owoh, a DSS operative, while he was traveling from Port Harcourt to Awka. They were further accused of taking the operative hostage and causing his death in the course of the alleged criminal operation. The incident occurred on February 23, 2022, along Orlu Road in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State.
The defendants are also accused of belonging to the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, as well as involvement in activities linked to terrorism. The prosecution alleged that the suspects were involved in the unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offenses.
The charges follow investigations into the circumstances surrounding the abduction and killing of the DSS operative and the alleged activities of the defendants. The DSS has intensified its intelligence-led operations and prosecution of individuals suspected of involvement in terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.
The suspects, who are also known by aliases Onyechimeleze, Kante, and Ability, are expected to face justice for their alleged crimes. The DSS has stated that it hopes justice will prevail in this case, given the gravity of the offenses and the fact that one of its personnel was involved.
The case has sparked concerns about the growing insecurity in Anambra State and the activities of proscribed groups. The arraignment of the suspects is seen as a significant step towards addressing the issue of terrorism and kidnapping in the region. The court is yet to give a date for the hearing of the case.
The DSS has continued to play a crucial role in combating terrorism and other violent crimes in Nigeria. The agency's efforts have led to the arrest and prosecution of several suspects involved in various crimes, and it is hoped that this case will set a precedent for future prosecutions.
Key points
- The suspects face a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and kidnapping.
- The incident occurred on February 23, 2022, along Orlu Road in Ihiala LGA, Anambra State.
- The DSS has intensified its intelligence-led operations and prosecution of individuals suspected of involvement in terrorism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.
