DSS Arrests Five in Connection with Niger School Abduction

The Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended two foreigners and three accomplices in connection with the abduction of nearly 300 students and staff from St. Mary's Catholic School in Papiri Village, Niger State, on November 21, 2025.

The attack resulted in the escape of 50 children, while 250 others were taken. By December 21, 2025, the federal government confirmed the safe return of 130 students and teachers, with no pupils remaining in captivity.

The arrested individuals include Yusuf Moham, also known as Batur, and Mubarak Ibrahim, who were apprehended on the Zaria-Kaduna highway. Batur is reportedly linked to the Boko Haram terrorist organization.

The operation revealed that Batur and Ibrahim were involved in collecting arms for the group. The DSS recovered 15 AK rifles and 1,434 rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition concealed in an unnamed blue car.

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, the country director of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, confirmed the arrests and emphasized the need for accountability from the government.