Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), arrested Shafiu Usman in Gombe State. Usman, the alleged mastermind of the December 14, 2025, attack on the Evangelical Church Winning All in Ayetoro, Kogi State, hid in a remote location.
Security sources confirmed the arrest occurred after weeks of intelligence tracking. Additionally, a DSS official stated that Usman confessed during interrogation.
The Attack Incident
Bandits abducted over 20 worshippers during a Sunday service at the church in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area. Witnesses reported armed assailants stormed the premises and took hostages.
However authorities later rescued some victims through joint operations. Channels Television reported the incident led to widespread fear in the community.
Confessions and Links
Usman admitted to planning the Ayetoro assault. Furthermore, he revealed involvement in kidnappings across Niger, Kwara, and Kogi states. Security sources disclosed Usman engaged in banditry and cattle rustling.
A source quoted Usman as saying Ibrahim Dange Battijo supplied arms and ammunition. Battijo, a notorious bandit, operated in multiple states including Zamfara.
Broader Implications
The arrest highlighted DSS efforts against cross-state crime syndicates. Officials noted recent operations in Gombe neutralized arms networks and rescued victims. Sahara Reporters stated this capture followed the church attack that drew national attention.
Ongoing Probes
Investigators continued to probe Usman’s network. Punch newspaper quoted a source saying the confession aided in dismantling related groups. Meanwhile authorities expected more arrests.
Nairaland forum discussions echoed security sources’ claims on Usman’s collaborations. The operation underscored commitment to curbing banditry in Nigeria’s north-central region.
