By Muhammad Mamman
The Department of State Services (DSS) has carried out a series of coordinated operations in Niger State, dismantling armed bandit networks and bringing an end to years of illegal “tax” collections that terrorised rural communities.
Authorities say the operations have neutralised dozens of militants, arrested key commanders, and shut down extortion rackets that funded their activities.
The DSS, Nigeria’s domestic intelligence agency, has been working closely with the Nigerian Army and Air Force in intelligence-led offensives since late 2024.
These joint efforts have reclaimed large swathes of territory from armed groups that once operated with impunity.
One of the most significant operations took place in June near Kuchi town in Munya Local Government Area.
Security operatives ambushed a convoy of over 100 bandits, killing 45 and recovering high-powered rifles, motorcycles, and other combat equipment. The assault disrupted a planned attack by the notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide.
Beyond direct combat, the DSS has targeted the financial backbone of the armed groups. For years, militants have imposed shadow levies on villagers, extorting money, livestock, and crops under threats of violence. By arresting their logistics handlers and leaders, the agency has crippled this revenue stream.
In August, DSS operatives captured Abubakar Abba, also known as Mahmuda, a wanted commander involved in cross-border banditry. His arrest near the Kwara-Niger border severed a key supply and funding channel.
Subsequent operations in December, January, and July wiped out terrorist hideouts, intercepted weapons shipments, and disrupted communications used to enforce illegal taxes.
The DSS says these actions have made it impossible for bandits to maintain roadblocks or patrol farmlands.
Under the leadership of Director-General Tosin Ajayi, the agency has increased collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and incorporated local vigilantes into its strategy.
Residents in Shiroro, Munya, and Rafi LGAs report a marked decline in attacks, with farming and daily life resuming in previously unsafe areas.
Security analysts say the success in Niger State could serve as a model for tackling banditry across northern Nigeria, where millions have been displaced by similar violence. By starving armed groups of funding and mobility, experts believe the DSS is offering a blueprint for reclaiming stability in the region.
Speaking on AIT’s current affairs programme, Kakaaki Newspaper Review, Emma Aziken said:“We should praise them, especially in the deployment of intelligence. At least, my people, this is a digital arrest.
“When the president was being commended on the arrest of Mahuda, the president, the United States governor, it was because this was a man who had terrorised them.
But the DSS, using technology, was able to apprehend him. That is a positive development because it restores confidence. There is a sense of security that is gradually returning.
“I saw it on television the other day — life is slowly coming back to those areas of Niger State that had been taken over and administered by terrorists.
“Do not forget, just two years ago under the past administration, farmers in Niger State were paying taxes to these criminals just to be allowed to farm.
“So if there is now a reversal, if there is a change in narrative, it is a welcome development. And speaking of Tuji, that notorious figure from Zamfara — I understand he is now begging. Some of his victims, at least 40 of them, were expected to arrive in Abuja by this morning.”
Also speaking, security expert Ezeocha Nze said:“I think the administration is making some efforts, especially in tackling these criminals. But they need to do more, particularly in collaborating with local communities.
We know that in some places, communities work with these bad elements, especially in cases of kidnapping. I mentioned here last week how a kidnapped medical law student was held in a village in Benue State, and the villagers were all aware.
Yet they did nothing. This is why the governor must be more proactive in sensitising communities not to aid these criminals.
People should report kidnappers anytime they see victims being held against their will in their communities.”
