The Department of State Services (DSS) has charged nine suspects before the Federal High Court, Abuja, over recent deadly attacks in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, and parts of Plateau State.
According to the charge sheet, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe LGA, Nasarawa State, alongside others still at large, allegedly attacked residents of Abinsi and Yelwata villages on 13 June 2025. The DSS said the act contravened section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.
The suspects reportedly conspired with Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina to commit the offences. Prosecutors accused them of engaging in conduct preparatory to terrorism, contrary to section 29 of the same Act.
Two other men, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede of Guma LGA, Benue State, were also charged with carrying out reprisal attacks. They allegedly attended a meeting that planned terrorism-related acts, leading to the destruction of property and the loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam village. They further faced charges of conspiracy, unlawful possession of arms, and aiding terrorism.
In a separate case, 32-year-old Halima Haliru Umar of Faskari LGA, Katsina State, was charged with transporting 302 rounds of live AK-47 ammunition to bandits and concealing information about a suspected arms dealer, offences the DSS said breached sections 6 and 13 of the Terrorism Act.
Additionally, 75-year-old Nanbol Tali and Timnan Manjo were charged with illegally buying and selling AK-47 rifles and revolvers to bandits, in violation of the Firearms Act 2024. Another suspect, Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA, faced a five-count charge of unlawful possession of pistols.
The DSS also arraigned Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA, Benue State, on a six-count charge for unlawful possession of 18 grenades and 683 rounds of live ammunition.
The Federal Government, represented by the Director of Public Prosecution, Muhammad Abubakar, filed the charges. No date has been fixed for the trial.