By Ahmed Muhammed Danasabe
Lokoja, Nigeria- February 27, 2026(Series News Online)
The Department of State Services (DSS) has apprehended the alleged mastermind behind the December 14, 2025, attack on an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) church in Aiyetoro Kiri, Kogi State, which resulted in the abduction of at least 20 worshippers.
Security sources revealed that the suspect, identified as Shafiu Usman, was arrested at a hideout in Gombe State after weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering and surveillance. "Usman confessed to orchestrating the Ayetoro church attack and other kidnappings in Niger, Kwara, and Kogi States," a security official said.
The attack, which occurred during a church service, sparked widespread condemnation from community leaders and residents. DSS operatives had been tracking the suspect, believed to have planned and coordinated the assault, and his arrest is seen as a significant breakthrough in dismantling the criminal network.
"Shafiu admitted to involvement in kidnapping, banditry, and cattle rustling. He said Ibrahim Battijo supplied him with arms and ammunition," the source added. Usman is currently in DSS custody, assisting investigators with information that may lead to further arrests.
The DSS reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning that security agencies remain determined to track down and bring to justice anyone involved in acts of violence and kidnapping.
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Crime