The Department of State Services (DSS) on Tuesday , April 26, 2022, alerted the public to plans by criminals to launch Improvised Explosive Device attacks on soft and hard targets in parts of the country.
In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Dr Peter Afunanya, the DSS said it uncovered a plot 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.
It stated that there were already reported cases of such incidents in some areas.
The PRO said that the objective of the criminals was 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 this, 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.
“To this end, residents are enjoined to go about their lawful businesses and share, with security and law enforcement agencies, useful information on the activities of criminals,” Dr Afunanya said in the statement.
In his comment in the statement, the Director General of State Services, Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, wished all and sundry a hitch free Workers’ Day and Sallah celebrations.