DSS and Army Prevent Kidnapping of WAEC Students

On Wednesday, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Army successfully foiled a significant kidnapping attempt by members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) targeting students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination in the South East. The operation, based on credible intelligence, took place in Enugu State and led to the recovery of a substantial cache of high-caliber arms, including eight AK-47 rifles, 12 AK-47 magazines, and 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

The security forces also seized a smoke grenade launcher, two tear gas canisters, and various uniforms associated with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Intelligence indicated that ESN members planned to launch attacks disguised in NYSC uniforms, aiming to create an impression of banditry in the region.

This operation follows the arrest of five suspects linked to a previous kidnapping incident at St. Mary's Catholic School in Niger State on November 21, 2025, highlighting the ongoing threat of school kidnappings in Nigeria.