DSS Commended for Preventing Major Kidnappings in Akwa Ibom During Eid El-Kabir

Strategic Insights -

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has praised the Department of State Service (DSS) for preventing major kidnappings in Akwa Ibom during the Eid El-Kabir Sallah festivities. According to credible security sources, the DSS smashed a sea pirate gang linked to the November 2024 kidnap of two Chinese nationals and a Nigerian staff member of the MarkSino quarry in Cross River State. The arrest of the four gang leaders, who were also linked to the kidnapping of big business owners and prominent traditional rulers, highlighted the resolve of the DSS to secure Nigerians through sustained covert operations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DSS prevented major kidnappings in Akwa Ibom during the Eid El-Kabir Sallah festivities, commended by the Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN).
  • The DSS smashed a sea pirate gang linked to the November 2024 kidnap of two Chinese nationals and a Nigerian staff member of the MarkSino quarry in Cross River State.
  • The arrest of four gang leaders, who were linked to the kidnapping of big business owners and prominent traditional rulers, highlighted the DSS's resolve to secure Nigerians through sustained covert operations.
  • The DSS arrested four suspected commanders of the gang with two AK-47 rifles and six fully loaded magazines at their hideout in Oron local government area of Akwa Ibom State.
  • The gang was reportedly targeting top politicians, including Governor Umo Eno, who was attending a formal defection ceremony from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
  • The CHRAN called on the DSS not to relent in executing covert operations to reduce the menace of sea piracy, kidnapping, and other high-profile crimes in the country.
  • Demands were made on the DSS to continue performing their covert operations roles, as they are strategically necessary to drastically reduce the rate of crimes in Nigeria.

Statistics:

  • 2 Chinese nationals and 1 Nigerian staff member were kidnapped by the sea pirate gang in November 2024.
  • 1 Police Inspector attached to the workers was shot dead by the kidnappers during the November 2024 incident.
  • 4 gang leaders were arrested by the DSS.
  • 4 suspected commanders of the gang, with 2 AK-47 rifles and 6 fully loaded magazines, were arrested at their hideout in Oron local government area.
  • The gang was reportedly involved in targeting high-ranking expatriate staff of oil companies, high-net-worth business owners, and prominent traditional rulers across the South-South geopolitical zone.

Sources:

  • A press release signed by Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Comrade (Barr.) Christopher Ekpo, Director and Secretary of CHRAN, respectively.
  • A statement from the Department of State Service (DSS).
  • A security report cited in the CHRAN's press release.