DSS Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Deadly 2025 Attack on Kogi ECWA Church

DSS Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Deadly 2025 Attack on Kogi ECWA Church

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested Shafiu Usman, the suspected mastermind behind the deadly December 14, 2025, assault on the First Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.The attack, which occurred during a Sunday service, saw armed gunmen reportedly arriving on dozens of motorcycles storm the church premises shortly after worship ended. They opened fire, killing at least one person (including a father who attempted to protect his son in some accounts) and abducting over 30 worshippers, including children as young as two, elderly congregants, and other parishioners.The incident sparked widespread outrage and highlighted ongoing insecurity in the region, with many residents fleeing the community amid repeated prior attacks, abductions, and ransom demands. Initial reports indicated at least 13 worshippers were confirmed abducted, though figures later rose to over 30. Some victims were later released through community efforts and negotiations, while others remained in captivity for weeks, with videos surfacing showing distressed abductees, including children.Security sources confirmed that Usman was apprehended at a hideout in Gombe State after evading capture following the church raid. During interrogation, he allegedly confessed to orchestrating the Ayetoro Kiri attack and admitted involvement in multiple other kidnapping operations across Kogi, Niger, and Kwara States.The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the incident, which prompted joint security operations involving the army, police, NSCDC, DSS, and local hunters in pursuit of the perpetrators in nearby forests.No further details on charges or court proceedings have been released yet, but the DSS operation underscores intensified efforts to combat banditry and kidnapping targeting vulnerable communities and places of worship in central Nigeria.  

Source: DSS Arrests Alleged Mastermind of Deadly 2025 Attack on Kogi ECWA Church

 - NigerianEye
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