The Department of State Services (DSS) has launched an investigation into its officials who opened fire on traders in Abuja’s famed Garki market. It had already made a statement in response to the incident, criticizing its operators’ behavior on September 7, 2023.
“This is to further inform the public that the service has formed an in-house investigative team on the matter,” said DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya. While the investigation is ongoing, the agency has paid visits to the two injured people at the various hospitals where they are receiving treatment.
“It committed to paying the medical bills and made the necessary deposits in that regard.” To demonstrate its seriousness of purpose during the visits, the service expressed willingness to relocate them to its world-class medical center in Abuja.”
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Afunanya revealed that the activities may have been carried out by the secret police even if its personnel were not involved. “Though these efforts are not in any way an admission of guilt (as the investigation is still ongoing), the service believes the victims deserve empathy, financial support, and justice,” he added.
“It will continue to monitor their recovery and progress while in regular contact with their families or guardians.” The DSS assures the public, however, that the victims are “upbeat and responding well to treatment.”
“The public may wish to note that the service has not interfered with the police investigation, which is also detaining its employees suspected of being involved in the incident.” The position of the service is consistent not only with its stated commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, but also with its stated commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Nonetheless, such updates will continue to be made available until the situation is fully resolved.”
