Breaking: Security agents deployed to train stations after DSS alert

Breaking: Security agents deployed to train stations after DSS alert 

The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has deployed personnel from various security agencies in the country to some strategic parts along the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor to avert terrorist attack.

This was disclosed in a tweet by @DefenceTimesNG1 on the microblogging platform, X, formerly known as Twitter on Thursday morning.

“Nigerian Railway Corporation deploy security agents in bushes and train stations on the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor. This security measure by #NRC management is strategically put in place to thwart alleged plot to attack trains and motorists plying the route,” it said.

READ ALSO: Terrorists planning to attack Abuja-Kaduna train soon – DSS

This comes following a security alert by the Department of State Services (DSS) of a possible attack on the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor.

The DSS in a statement issued on Wednesday, it cautioned train passengers to be vigilant while travelling by train along the corridor.

The statement was signed by DSS Director FCT Command, R.N. Adepemu entitled: Security Alert: ‘Impending Threat By A Coalition Of Banditry Syndicate To Attack Abuja-Kaduna Train Service Along AKTS Corridor, as per News Point.

The statement reads, “Intelligence report indicates impending threat to seamless train transportation along the Abuja ~ Kaduna Train Service (AKTS).

“The development is sequel to the plot by a coalition of banditry syndicate to attack Abuja ~ Kaduna Train Service aimed at kidnapping passengers on board for ransom any moment from now.

”In view of the threat inherent and the need to forestall likely breach of security along the AKTS, it is advised that, existing security arrangements be scaled up within and along the route. In addition, the need for the under listed counter security measures be emplaced ta nip in the bud the impending threats.

i. Air surveillance patrol; Surveillance on the rail track; Military checkpoint/ patrol; Police checkpoint/ patrol; Security raid operation be carry out around Byazhin, Jibi, as well as ja forest Enhance the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (NPMF) operatives with walkie talkie to sustain escort services on train;

vii, Deploy more Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) with walkie talkie to provide escort duty; ie contents of this correspondence are classified: Unauthorized disclosure could lead to prosecution.

viii. Crisis response team be established in the advent of attack for quick response time; Intelligence sharing amongst all relevant stakeholders.

“Although, the aforementioned threat is yet to be in the public domain, the development is capable of heightening fears over safety of lives and property amongst stakeholders and commuters of trail transportation along the AKTS corridor.

“Therefore, the need to discreetly manage this intelligence provided cannot be, over emphasized.

“This is particularly against the backdrop of fatal attacks along the routes which left casualties and victims hence, some passengers were killed as well as others abducted for several months before their eventual release.

The alert comes after the March 22, 2023 deadly trained attract by the terrorist group where many passengers reportedly died and others abducted before they were released after negotiations on ransom.