Yusuf Bichi, DSS DG
The Department of State Services (DSS) says it has constituted an in-house investigative team to unravel the controversy surrounding the recent shooting at the Garki Market in Abuja.
Recall that pandemonium broke out in the market last week when staff of the secret police, who reportedly stormed the market to effect an arrest, opened fire on some traders.
At least two traders, including a tailor, were seriously injured during the incident.
In a statement on Thursday by the spokesperson of the secret police, Peter Afunanya, the service revealed that it recently “visited the two injured persons at the different hospitals where they are receiving treatment”.
The statement also revealed that the staff of the DSS who were allegedly involved in the shooting have been detained by the police.
It, however, promises not to interfere with the investigation being carried out by the police, despite detaining its staff.
Part of the statement reads, “It committed to the payment of the medical bills and made required deposits in this regard. To show sincerity of purpose at the time of the visits, the Service expressed readiness to move them to its world-class medical facility in Abuja. It could have undertaken these actions even if its staff were not involved.
“Though these efforts are not, in any way, in admission of guilt (as the investigation is yet to be concluded), the Service believes that the victims deserve empathy, financial support and justice.
“While it is in regular contact with their families or guardians, it will continue to follow up on their recovery and progress. However, the DSS reassures the public that the victims are upbeat and responding well to treatment.
“The public may wish to note that the Service has not interfered with the investigation of the Police, which is also detaining its Staff suspected to be involved in the incident.”
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