The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over their alleged involvement in the abduction and killing of its officer, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
The suspects were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and the alleged kidnapping of a DSS operative.
The defendants are Michael Okafor, also known as Onyechimeleze; Chinedu; Joseph Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, also known as Ability.
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly conspired to commit acts of terrorism and were involved in the abduction of Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.
The prosecution further alleged that the DSS operative was taken hostage and subsequently killed during the operation.
The defendants were also accused of being members of the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as participating in activities allegedly connected to terrorism.
In addition, the prosecution alleged that the suspects were involved in the unlawful possession of firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, in connection with the offences.
The court adjourned the case until October 6 for the commencement of trial.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody pending further proceedings.
