The Department of State Services, on Thursday, raised the alarm over a plot by criminal elements to attack worship places and recreational centers ahead of the Muslim Eid celebrations next week.
This followed the discovery of 22 primed Improvised Explosive Devices and 486 rounds of 7.62 x39mm calibre ammunition in Nasarawa and Kogi States.
A statement signed by the DSS spokesman, Peter Afunanya, said a joint security team comprising the Department of State Services, Nigerian Army and Police carried out operations in Nasarawa and Kogi States.
The statement stated that the first operation was conducted on June 19 along the Abuja- Keffi Expressway in Keffi LGA of Nasarawa State, where the team apprehended Abubakar Muhammad (aka Abu Direba), a suspected gunrunner.
During the operation, the team seized 486 rounds of 7.62 x39mm calibre ammunition and 22 primed IEDs.
In another joint operation, also on Thursday, a security team raided the hideout of Kabir Bala (aka Okwo), one time jail breaker and notorious gang leader in Ejule, Ofu LGA of Kogi State.
Okwo and his gang members engaged the troops in a gun duel during which he was neutralised. Others, however, fled the area. Items recovered at the scene were one AK47 rifle with three (3) fully loaded magazines, six (6) locally fabricated weapons, two (2) phones and charms.
“The DSS calls for vigilance prior to the Eid celebrations more so that reports had indicated plans to attack worship and recreational centres before and during the festivities. This is evident in the recovery of primed IEDs among the suspected terrorists.
“Operators and patrons of public places including markets, malls etcetera are advised to be watchful and report any suspicious movements and persons to the relevant security agencies.
“Accordingly, the service will continue to partner sister agencies for necessary proactive drills to frustrate criminals and their activities,” it said.
