DSS Arrests ISWAP Mastermind Of Kogi Bomb Explosion

The Department of State Services has arrested the mastermind of a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device attack of 29th December 2022, near the Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland in Okene, Kogi State during the President visit to commission some projects in the state.

A statement by the DSS spokesperson Dr Peter Afunanya, on Wednesday said, the Service arrested one Abdulmumin Ibrahim OTARU (aka Abu Mikdad) and his associates, Saidu SULEIMAN on the 3rd January, 2023.

OTARU according to the statement sustained a gunshot injury on his left foot while attempting to escape. He is currently receiving treatment at a health facility.

Investigations by DSS, revealed that OTARU was a high commander of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and has coordinated several attacks including the 5th July, 2022 attack on Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja.

Similarly, OTARU and his gang have staged several kidnap operations in Kogi and Ondo States. Meanwhile, the suspects are in custody and will be prosecuted accordingly.
While reiterating its commitment to the safety of the nation, the DSS assures that it work assiduously with stakeholders including sister security agencies to tackle the menace of terrorism and other forms of criminality in the country.