The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested suspects for allegedly attempting to divert palliatives provided by the federal government to ameliorate the hardship caused by the removal of petrol subsidies.
Spokesman of the Service, Peter Afunanya, in a statement on Tuesday, September 5, said in a statement on Tuesday, September 5, that the agency received reports from some state governments about the diversion or sale of palliatives intended for their citizens.
He said consequently, the Service undertook investigations into the matter and has recovered some of the items, and apprehended the suspects.
Afunanya said that the suspects have been transferred to the relevant authorities for further action.
He said: “While this operation is ongoing in other states, the Service has, for instance, intercepted a suspected criminal syndicate in Nasarawa State responsible for the diversion and sale of the palliatives meant for the vulnerable in the place.”
“Among those suspects are officials of Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA) and their accomplices in the markets, notably Modern Market Lafia, where the items were being resold.”
“The suspects have, however, been handed over for appropriate disciplinary measures.”
“The Service, therefore, calls on members of the public who may have information relating to this emerging trend to report same to the relevant security agencies for necessary action.”