Crime
BREAKING: DSS Arrests Sixth Suspect in 2022 Owo Church Massacre
In a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have captured the sixth suspect linked to the deadly June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which claimed the lives of over 40 worshippers and left many others injured.
The suspect, identified as Sani Yusuf, a high-profile commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), had evaded capture for nearly four years, making him one of Nigeria’s most wanted fugitives in connection with the massacre.
According to security sources, Yusuf was apprehended in the Iguosa community along Powerline in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, where he had been hiding in a relatively quiet village setting.
Following the Owo church attack, Yusuf reportedly fled to Kano State temporarily before relocating to Edo to lay low. Sources revealed that he has since confessed to his direct involvement in the planning and execution of the Owo church massacre.
In addition to the Owo incident, Yusuf allegedly admitted to participating in other ISWAP operations, including the July 2022 attack on the Suleja military barracks, the Zuma Rock checkpoint assault that killed five soldiers, and multiple kidnapping incidents in Kaduna State and surrounding areas.
He further disclosed serving under prominent ISWAP figures, including Abu Ikirimah, who was arrested by the DSS in 2024.
The DSS is already prosecuting five other suspects in the Owo attack case: Idris Omeiza (25), Al Qasim Idris (20), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26), Abdulhaleem Idris (25), and Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47).
They face charges related to terrorism and are currently standing trial.
“This arrest represents a significant step forward in delivering justice for the victims of the Owo church attack, the soldiers slain at Zuma Rock, and others affected by ISWAP’s reign of terror,” a security source stated. “It highlights the DSS’s unwavering commitment and persistent efforts in combating terrorism across the country.
“The development comes amid ongoing court proceedings in the Federal High Court in Abuja, where witnesses, including DSS operatives, have provided evidence linking the earlier suspects to the crime through technical intelligence, confessions, and forensic analysis.
Authorities have not yet released further details on when Yusuf will be arraigned or additional charges he may face, but the arrest is seen as a boost to national security operations targeting ISWAP remnants.
Crime
Wanted Soldier Arrested for Supplying Military Gear to Terrorists
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a Nigerian Army soldier recently declared wanted for allegedly supplying military accoutrements to terrorists and other criminal elements.
Private Mohammed Yusuf of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Kits Factory, Lagos, was apprehended at about 6:30 p.m. on July 25 by personnel of the 7 Provost Group at Jidari Bus Stop in Maiduguri. He was reportedly attempting to flee to the Republic of Cameroon when he was arrested following credible human intelligence.

The soldier had been declared wanted by the Nigerian Army on July 23. Preliminary investigations indicate that he absconded from his unit on July 7, 2026, before relocating to Maiduguri. He allegedly went into hiding in the Gomari Costain area of Jere Local Government Area with the assistance of an associate.
The military said the arrest underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s commitment to holding personnel accountable for actions that undermine military ethics, discipline and national security.
Private Yusuf is currently in the custody of the 7 Provost Group, where further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of his alleged activities and identify any accomplices.
Operation HADIN KAI reiterated that there is no safe haven for individuals who support terrorism or engage in any form of criminality, regardless of their status.
Crime
BREAKING: DSS, Zamfara Forces Rescue 4 Kidnapped Students
In a significant breakthrough, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Zamfara State security forces have successfully rescued the four remaining students of the Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda, who were abducted by suspected bandits.
The joint operation marks the latest success in efforts to secure the release of victims from the June abduction incident, where gunmen stormed off-campus student accommodations in the early hours, taking several students hostage.
Security sources confirmed that the students were recovered unharmed during intelligence-led raids. Details of the exact location and circumstances of the rescue are still emerging, but authorities described the operation as swift and coordinated.
This rescue comes amid ongoing security challenges in Zamfara State, where banditry has plagued communities and educational institutions. Earlier reports indicated that seven students were initially kidnapped, with some previously rescued or having escaped.
The Zamfara State Police Command and DSS have been praised for their collaborative efforts in tackling insecurity in the region. Families of the rescued students expressed relief and gratitude to the security agencies.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring peace in the northwest and urged residents to provide timely intelligence to security forces. Further updates on the investigation and possible arrests are expected.
This is a developing story.
Crime
DSS Set to Arraign Three Suspects Over Oriire School Abductions
The Department of State Services (DSS) is set to arraign three suspects before the Federal High Court on Wednesday, 23 July 2026, over their alleged involvement in the Oriire school abductions and related terrorism activities.
The suspects — Abdulrazak Umar (also known as Abu Khalifa or Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (also known as Yunusa Bin Musa), and Shamsu Adamu Sani (also known as Abu Itisar) — all hail from Niger State. They face a 10-count charge bordering on kidnapping, concealment of information, and terrorism-related offences.
According to the charges, the defendants are accused of knowingly withholding vital information about individuals linked to terrorist activities, actively participating in kidnapping operations, and using a messaging platform to facilitate terrorist training.
The planned arraignment marks the formal commencement of their criminal trial. The court is expected to take the defendants’ pleas and issue further directions on the matter.
The development comes as security agencies continue efforts to hold accountable those involved in the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire and similar incidents across the region.
-
Business3 days agoNaira Exchange Rates Across Black Market, CBN, Commercial Banks Friday, July 24
-
Business3 days agoMTN Nigeria asks customers to trade old SIM packs for prizes
-
News3 days agoEleven poets jostle for $100,000, ‘Nigeria Prize for Literature 2026’
-
Business3 days agoUS subjects imports from Nigeria to 12.5% tariff
-
News3 days agoPetrol hits N1,400/l as Brent Surges To $100
-
News3 days agoAmupitan wants INEC to be funded directly from federation’s account
-
News3 days agoIGP declares operation 14-day to flush out criminals in Benue
-
News3 days agoArmy declares soldier wanted for alleged sale of military uniforms to terrorists
