The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned nine suspects alleged to be behind recent waves of killings in Benue and Plateau States, intensifying the Federal Government’s crackdown on insecurity in the Middle Belt region.
According to Channels Television, the suspects were brought before a court on charges bordering on terrorism, conspiracy, and unlawful possession of firearms.
They are accused of complicity in the violent attacks that claimed multiple lives in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as well as several communities in Plateau State.
In a related development, the DSS also charged a suspected arms trafficker said to have been arrested in possession of seven M16 assault rifles. Security officials believe the weapons were destined for criminal networks fueling the violence across the two states.
The arraignment marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to address recurring communal clashes, armed attacks, and gun-running activities in Nigeria’s troubled north-central region.
The DSS emphasized that it remains committed to dismantling the supply chains of weapons and prosecuting perpetrators of mass violence.
The development has been welcomed by local residents and civil society groups, who have repeatedly called for justice and stronger security presence in rural communities ravaged by attacks.
However, they also urged the government to ensure diligent prosecution and transparency in the judicial process to rebuild public confidence.