Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
ABUJA / ASABA, Nigeria — Three years after four Nigerian Army soldiers were ambushed and killed in Ashaka Aboh, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, the Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested two suspects allegedly linked to the attack, marking a major breakthrough in a long‑running investigation.
The suspects, Ufuoma Sunday James and Lawrence Umuakpero Oboguayivwgue, were taken into custody in January 2026 after credible intelligence led DSS operatives to their location. Security sources say the duo have confessed to involvement in the killings and have also admitted to other serious offences — including gun‑running, kidnapping and other violent crimes that have plagued parts of the region.
The original attack took place in February 2023, when soldiers deployed on a peace‑keeping mission during a communal crisis between Kwale and Asemoku communities were ambushed by armed hoodlums. The incident resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and the theft of their military weapons, drawing national condemnation and prompting sustained security operations in the area.
In addition to the soldiers’ deaths, the suspects are alleged to have played roles in other violent incidents, including the beheading of Chief Okwudili Obi (also known as Odumodu) — a self‑proclaimed traditional ruler of Asemoku Community — amid the same 2023 communal crisis.
After their arrest, the two men were arraigned before a judge of the Delta State High Court sitting in Kwale and remanded in a correctional centre pending the commencement of their trial. Court proceedings are expected to examine their alleged involvement in the killings and related offences.
Security analysts and law enforcement officials have described the arrest as significant, noting that the suspects’ confessions and cooperation could help shed light on broader criminal networks responsible for violent attacks in parts of Delta State. These developments come amid ongoing efforts by the DSS and other agencies to investigate long‑unresolved violent crimes, particularly those targeting security personnel.
The DSS operation underscores a commitment by national security agencies to pursue justice even years after major incidents, emphasising that violent crimes against security forces and civilians alike will continue to be investigated and prosecuted.
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