The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed six separate charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja against nine terror suspects implicated in the deadly attacks on Yelwata village in Guma local government area of Benue State. The attacks, which occurred on June 13, 2025, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Among the suspects, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi from Awe local government area of Nasarawa State face a four-count charge related directly to the Yelwata massacre and the earlier attack on Abinsi village. They, alongside others still at large, are accused of orchestrating the assaults on local communities.
Additionally, two suspects from Guma local government area, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, face three-count charges for allegedly carrying out reprisal attacks against the original terror suspects. The charges include involvement in acts of terrorism, destruction of private property, and causing the loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam village, as stated under sections 12 and 13 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act.
The DSS also charged Halima Haliru Umar, a 32-year-old woman from Faskari local government area of Katsina State, with four counts of concealing information about a suspected gun runner and providing logistical support by transporting 302 rounds of ammunition to bandits. This is contrary to section 6 and section 13 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act.
Two other suspects, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and Timnan Manjo, face four-count charges related to the illegal buying and selling of locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, in violation of the Firearms Act 2024. They are accused of possession and unauthorized sale of firearms at inflated prices.
In a related case, Danjuma Antu of Jos North, Plateau State, was arraigned on five counts of unlawful possession of two pistols capable of discharging 9mm ammunition, contrary to the Firearms Act 2024.
Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu local government area, Benue State, faces a six-count charge for unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, and 683 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition without a license.
A DSS spokesperson emphasized the importance of these prosecutions in curbing terrorism and restoring security to the affected areas.
No trial date has been set for any of the suspects as of August 28, 2025.
The DSS continues to collaborate with security agencies in its ongoing efforts to ensure justice is served and peace is restored in Benue State and beyond.