DSS arraigns four suspected IPOB members for killing operative

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over the alleged kidnapping and killing of its operative, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.

The defendants — Michael Okafor, Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, Chibunna Olisa and Chigozie Olisa, were arraigned on a six-count charge before Joyce Abdulmalik, judge of the federal high court in Abuja.

They were charged with offences bordering on terrorism, kidnapping and unlawful possession of firearms.

The prosecution alleged that the defendants conspired to commit acts of terrorism and abducted Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers state, to Awka, Anambra state.

They were also accused of taking the DSS operative hostage and causing his death during the alleged operation.

The prosecution further alleged that the defendants belonged to the IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and participated in activities linked to terrorism.

They were also accused of unlawfully possessing firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the alleged offences.

Munirat Oladunjoye, prosecution counsel, asked the court to fix a date for trial and said the prosecution had three witnesses lined up to testify.

The judge subsequently fixed October 6 for commencement of trial and ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody.