DSS
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have reportedly neutralized members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and their armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in the South-East, as well as bandits in Niger State.
A senior police official, speaking anonymously, credited the improved security experienced during the Yuletide season in the South-East to covert operations by the DSS. He commended the DSS leadership for fostering greater collaboration with the military and other security agencies, enabling effective intelligence sharing.
The source revealed that prior to Christmas, the DSS identified and dismantled several IPOB and ESN camps across the South-East.
“In collaboration with the DSS, we conducted precise operations against IPOB and ESN leaders who were terrorizing residents in the South-East. Their strongholds in Orsu, Oru East, Oru West, and Orlu LGAs of Imo State were cleared, with multiple AK-47 rifles, improvised explosive device (IED) materials, and shrines destroyed,” the source stated.
He added that in Enugu State, DSS operatives led a successful operation in the Imilike Agu Forest in Udenu LGA, neutralizing numerous IPOB/ESN commanders and seizing weapons. Similar operations were conducted in Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi States.
Meanwhile, in Niger State, DSS operatives targeted AK-47-wielding bandits terrorizing Rafi LGA. The bandits, who were operating on motorcycles and looting shops, were neutralized, and their weapons and motorcycles were seized.
This marks the second major DSS offensive against bandits in Niger State within a week. Last Friday, operatives neutralized three bandits in Dogon Dawa, Mariga LGA.
Additionally, three weeks ago, DSS operatives arrested notorious bandits in Zamfara and Borno States. In Niger, the DSS launched a surprise attack on bandits gathering for a meeting in Uregi Village, Rafi LGA, after extensive surveillance.
While the operation was largely successful, the sources disclosed that three DSS operatives sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
