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Reported arrest of two terror suspects heightens security fears in Abuja

By Sodiq Omolaoye, Abuja
27 October 2022   |   2:21 pm
Insecurity fears heightened on Thursday at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after security agencies reportedly arrested two terror suspects at the Trademore Estate in the Lugbe area of the capital city. It was gathered that the operation allegedly led by the Department of State Services, DSS, uncovered boxes of explosives in the estate Two pistols…

[FILES] DSS

Insecurity fears heightened on Thursday at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after security agencies reportedly arrested two terror suspects at the Trademore Estate in the Lugbe area of the capital city.

It was gathered that the operation allegedly led by the Department of State Services, DSS, uncovered boxes of explosives in the estate

Two pistols were also recovered from an apartment rented by an alleged terrorist at the estate, it was learnt.

The two suspects, identified as siblings were said to have been taken into custody on the allegation of terrorism.

Residents of the estate have also claimed that security officers had been searching vehicles at random in some parts of the neighbourhood.

While the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command dismissed the rumours of a terror scare in the capital city, when contacted, spokesperson of the DSS, Dr Peter Afunanya didn’t respond to The Guardian enquiry on the matter.

But a viral message from the management of the estate to residents urging them to be vigilant is currently making rounds on social media.

The management claimed that the operation was carried out by a combination of the American Army and the DSS team.

The management advised residents to report any suspicious movements, persons or activities to its executives, street representatives or the police.

The statement said: “Good Evening Fellow residents, it’s no longer News that there was a High Powered Sting Operation in Phase 3 this afternoon, culminating in a complete shutdown of our estate. A combination of American Army and our DSS team were responsible.

“We are unable to give full details of the reason(s) behind the operation, however, we can confirm that there was an allegation of terrorist activities.

“It is therefore desperately incumbent on every resident to remain vigilant, know your neighbours and report any suspicious movement, person or activities to the Exco, Street Reps and/the Police.

“We will continue to do our utmost best to keep the estate safe for all of us. Everyone is responsible for security and there should no iota of abdication of this responsibility.

“Finally, let’s remain calm and continue to carry out our daily activities within the parameters of the Law.God bless and protect us all”

The development came a few days after the US warned its citizens about the possibility of terror attacks in Nigeria’s capital city.

In the security advisory posted on its website, the US Embassy said the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) stands a high risk of attack.

It said terrorists may target government buildings, places of worship, schools and markets.

The security advise said, “There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. Targets may include but are not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations. The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice.”

“Avoid all non-essential travel or movement. Stay alert. Avoid crowds. Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency. Carry proper identification.”

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