DSS Neutralizes Bandits In Niger Ambush, Bolstering National Security Efforts

Three notorious bandits were neutralized in a strategic ambush by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Dogon Dawa, Mairiga Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State. The operation, executed on Friday night, also saw several other bandits fleeing into the surrounding bushes with gunshot wounds. The DSS recovered three AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles left behind by the fleeing criminals.

Security sources revealed that the successful ambush followed weeks of intensive intelligence gathering, which included monitoring and analyzing the bandits’ communications. This operation is one of many the DSS has recently undertaken across the Northwest and Northeast regions, resulting in the neutralization or apprehension of numerous criminals threatening peace in these areas.

Additionally, the DSS has contributed significantly to combating the activities of the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) in the South-East. According to sources, the intelligence provided by the DSS has been pivotal in assisting the military and other security agencies in apprehending or neutralizing various terrorist threats nationwide.

Since the appointment of Mr. Tosin Ajayi as DSS Director-General by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the agency has intensified its intelligence-gathering activities and shared critical insights with sister security agencies. These efforts have reduced ambush incidents against military personnel and contributed to the successful dismantling of IPOB operations in the South-East.

A military officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, commended the DSS for its covert yet impactful operations under the leadership of the new Director-General. “The DSS has provided invaluable support to the military, and their contributions are essential in our fight against insecurity. The agency’s return to its covert operational style is proving highly effective,” the officer remarked.

In line with his commitment to improving national security, President Tinubu has promised to support the DSS in leveraging artificial intelligence to combat insecurity. The President reiterated this commitment during the recent investiture ceremony for the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) 17 graduates in Abuja.