A Department of State Services (DSS) investigator has told the Federal High Court in Abuja that several victims rescued from the 2022 Abuja–Kaduna train submitted written complaints against alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu.
The DSS operative, who testified on Thursday as the sixth prosecution witness (PW-6) in Mamu’s ongoing terrorism trial, made the disclosure during cross-examination by defence counsel, Johnson Usman, SAN, before Justice Mohammed Umar. The witness testified behind a protective screen for security reasons.
Under questioning, the investigator confirmed that some rescued victims, including the wife of a Commandant based in Jaji, formally lodged complaints with the DSS against the defendant. He stated clearly that the complaints were made in writing, not orally.
The prosecution counsel, David Kaswe, urged the court to prevent questions that could expose the identities of protected victims or witnesses, citing an existing order for witness protection. However, Usman argued that a trial held in camera should not infringe on the defendant’s right to fair hearing, noting that the individuals mentioned were not listed as witnesses.
The witness further revealed that six victims were interviewed during the investigation, none of them in Mamu’s presence. He also clarified that while he was not a vocologist, the audio exhibit tendered by the prosecution was an extract from a transcribed conversation allegedly between Mamu and the terrorists.
During the session, the DSS investigator confirmed interviewing several key figures, including retired General Abdulkadir Abubakar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and General Jalingo, though none were interviewed in the defendant’s presence. He also acknowledged that Mamu requested a face-to-face interrogation involving members of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Committee, a request that was not granted.
At the close of cross-examination, the prosecution announced its intention to close its case. The defence declined to file a no-case submission and instead requested time to open its defence. Justice Umar adjourned the matter to April 23 for the defendant to begin his defence.
I find it hard to believe the victims would file complaints against the negotiator. Soing seems off here. What do you guys think?
How can victims of such a traumatic event be expected to trust anyone? The alleged negotiators credibility is at stake.
I find it suious that rescued victims filed complaints against the negotiator. What do you all think? Seems fishy to me.
I find it suious that the rescued victims are filing complaints against the negotiator. Soing seems fishy here. What do you think?
Do you think the alleged negotiator in the Abuja-Kaduna train case is being unfairly targeted? Share your thoughts!
I find it hard to believe the victims would file complaints against the negotiator. Whats the real story here?
Can we trust the alleged negotiator in the Abuja-Kaduna train case? The DSS needs to provide concrete evidence.
I find it hard to believe the victims would file complaints against their rescuer. Soing doesnt add up here.