The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday arraigned nine suspects accused of complicity in the recent deadly attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as well as in parts of Plateau State.
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The nine defendants, listed in six separate charges, took turns to enter their pleas before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
They were accused of offences including unlawful possession and dealing in firearms, conspiracy, and assisting in terrorist activities.
DSS counsel, Calistus Eze, informed the court that the charges were dated and filed on August 28.
In one of the charges marked FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe LGA in Nasarawa State, alongside others still at large, were alleged to have, on June 13, carried out coordinated attacks against the people of Abinsi and Yelwata villages.
The DSS alleged that the offence contravened Section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.
The two accused persons were further said to have conspired with Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, Pyeure Damina, and others still at large to launch the attacks on Yelwata.
After the defendants pleaded not guilty, Justice Nwite ordered that they be remanded in DSS custody with access to their lawyers.
The judge adjourned the charge involving Ashuwa, Alede, and Halima Umar until October 2 for trial, while the case involving Manjo and Tali was adjourned until October 17 for review and trial.
The trial of Antu and Oloche was also fixed for October 17.
Meanwhile, the DSS on Wednesday filed a fresh five-count charge against suspected gunrunner Huzaifa Ahamad Haruna, also known as Huzaifa Dogo, who was allegedly arrested with seven M16 assault rifles.
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