The Department of State Services (DSS), yesterday in Abuja, brought nine individuals before the Federal High Court, accusing them of involvement in recent violent incidents across Benue and Plateau states. Among those charged, one suspect admitted guilt on counts related to unlawful firearms possession.
The accused, standing trial on six different indictments, faced allegations ranging from illegal arms trading to aiding terrorism activities. They include Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede from Benue State, Haruna Adamu and Muhammed Abdullahi from Nasarawa State, Halima Haliru Usman from Katsina State, along with Plateau residents Timna Manjo, Nanbol Tali, Danjuma Antu, and Silas Iduh Oloche.
Timna Manjo confessed to two counts among the multiple charges levied against him and Tali, admitting to the illegal acquisition and sale of locally fabricated assault rifles and revolvers without the required licenses.
The charges specify that between July and August 2025, Manjo and Tali operated in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, engaging in trading unlicensed firearms, including AK-47 replicas and long-range revolvers. Manjo also admitted to purchasing weapons at certain prices with intent to resell them.
Meanwhile, Ashuwa and Alede face accusations of attending a terrorist-related meeting in Daudu village and facilitating the supply of illicit weaponry, which allegedly contributed to massive property destruction and loss of livestock.
Two other suspects, Adamu and Abdullahi, are accused of conspiring to support violent acts in Benue State by participating in planning gatherings and withholding critical intelligence from authorities, hampering law enforcement efforts.
Halima Umar is charged with transporting and possessing hundreds of live rounds of AK-47 ammunition across the Plateau State.
Justice Emeka Nwite presided over the arraignment proceedings, ordering the accused persons to remain in DSS custody with access to legal representation. Trials for the defendants are scheduled progressively from early October through mid-month, with careful attention on differing sets of charges.
In a related development, DSS disclosed fresh allegations against Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna, also known as Huzaifa Dogo, who was apprehended carrying multiple M16 assault rifles. The new complaint accuses him of providing firearms and logistical support to terrorist activities within Plateau State earlier this year.
These prosecutions were successful due to the joint collaboration of the Nigerian security forces to curb arms trafficking and associated terrorism that threaten peace in Benue and Plateau states. Authorities emphasize the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation from citizens to stem the tide of illegal firearms.
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