By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have apprehended the suspected mastermind behind the deadly attack on an Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) church in Aiyetoro Kiri, Kogi State, which led to the abduction of no fewer than 20 worshippers on December 14, 2025.
Security sources confirmed that the arrest followed weeks of coordinated intelligence gathering and surveillance by operatives who had been tracking those responsible for the attack.
The operation reportedly led to the capture of the suspect believed to have planned and coordinated the assault on the church.
The attack occurred during a church service when heavily armed gunmen stormed the premises, firing sporadically and creating panic among worshippers before abducting several individuals to an unknown destination.
The incident triggered widespread condemnation from community leaders, religious organizations, and residents across the state.
Following the attack, security agencies launched a series of operations aimed at rescuing the victims and identifying those behind the crime.
Authorities said the investigation involved extensive intelligence work, collaboration with local security networks, and surveillance activities across several locations.
Officials familiar with the development revealed that the suspect was arrested in a carefully planned operation carried out by DSS operatives.
The arrest is believed to be a major step toward dismantling the criminal network responsible for the attack.
Security sources further indicated that the suspect is currently in custody and assisting investigators with useful information that may lead to the arrest of other members of the group involved in the incident.
Authorities also reassured residents of Kogi State that efforts are being intensified to strengthen security around places of worship and communities across the state.
The DSS reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, warning criminal elements that security agencies remain determined to track down and bring to justice anyone involved in acts of violence and kidnapping.
Further details regarding the suspect and ongoing investigations are expected to be released by the authorities in the coming days.
