DSS raises alarm!

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*Says it has uncovered plans to attack critical infrastructure nationwide

*That criminal gangs plan to forge alliance, bomb worship, relaxation centres

*Regrets that they want to return Nigeria to pre-2015 kind of IED attacks on soft, hard targets

*Cautions patrons, owners, managers of such places to be security conscious

By Kenneth Atavti

As Nigerians plan to join the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s Ed-el-fitr and Workers’ Day, the Department of State Services, DSS said it has uncovered plans by some criminal gangs to attack critical infrastructure nationwide during the period.

This was contained in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Department, Dr. Peter Afunanya and made available to newsmen in Abuja.

He said it has become necessary to alert the public on the development which he described as an attempt to return Nigeria to pre-2015 kind of IED attacks on soft and hard targets.

Afunanya said, “The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby draws public attention to plans by criminal elements to return the country to the pre-2015 era reminiscent of IED attacks on soft and hard targets in parts of the country.”

According to him, “Though there are already reported cases of such incidents in some areas, the Service has uncovered a ploy by suspected criminal gangs to forge an alliance among themselves with a view to launching further attacks on critical infrastructure and other frequented public places like worship and relaxation centres, especially during and after the holidays and festive celebrations.”

“The objective is to achieve some self- serving interests as well as cause fear among the citizenry. The Service, however, recalls its earlier warning that some groups and individuals were plotting to stoke violence in the country.

“Following these, patrons, owners and managers of aforementioned public places are advised to be wary of this development and implement basic security measures to deter the threats.

“While the Service is committed to the disruption of this trend and pattern of violent attacks, it will continue to partner with other security agencies to ensure that necessary drills are emplaced in order that public peace and order are not jeopardized.

“Residents are enjoined to go about their lawful businesses and share with security and law enforcement agencies useful information on the activities of criminals”, he further stated.

Meanwhile, the Director General, Department of Security Services, DSS, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi wishes all and sundry a hitch free Workers’ Day and Sallah celebrations.