DSS files multiple terrorism charges against Yelwata attack suspects

The Department of State Services (DSS) has instituted several terrorism-related cases before the Federal High Court in Abuja, targeting nine individuals allegedly connected to the recent violent raids on Yelwata community in Benue State and parts of Plateau.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the coordinated assaults claimed over 40 lives, left many others wounded, and displaced hundreds of residents across the two states.

Court documents revealed that Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, both from Awe LGA in Nasarawa State, alongside other fugitives, were accused of launching attacks on Abinsi and Yelwata on June 13.

The DSS said their actions violated Section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

The suspects were further alleged to have conspired with Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina to perpetrate the killings.

In the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, filed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Muhammad Abubakar, the defendants were accused of preparing to commit acts of terrorism, contrary to Section 29 of the law.

In a separate matter, two men from Guma LGA of Benue, identified as Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, were also arraigned under charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/448/2025.

They face three counts of allegedly carrying out revenge attacks following the Yelwata violence.

The DSS claimed they attended meetings where terrorism plots were hatched, destroyed private property, and caused economic loss, including the killing of 12 cattle in Ukpam village. They were further accused of conspiring with others and receiving weapons, including AK-47 rifles, from one Alhaji Uba.

Similarly, a 32-year-old woman, Halima Haliru-Umar from Faskari LGA of Katsina State, was charged on four counts for transporting 302 rounds of live ammunition to bandits and withholding critical information on the activities of a known arms supplier.

The DSS also arraigned two elderly men, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and Timnan Manjo of Plateau State, for allegedly dealing in illegal arms, including the sale of two locally made AK-47 rifles valued at ₦3 million and three revolvers. In another case, Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA was charged with unlawful possession of pistols capable of firing 9mm rounds.

Furthermore, Silas Oloche from Agatu LGA, Benue, faces a six-count charge for being in possession of 18 grenades and 683 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition without a license, an offence under the Firearms Act.

For now, no date has been scheduled for the commencement of the hearings.