Amnesty International Demands Probe Into Alleged Extrajudicial Killings by DSS Operatives

Amnesty International has called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently investigate the alleged extrajudicial execution of two men by its personnel in the Karmajiji community of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The human rights organisation said the incident, which occurred on 19 January 2026, highlights what it described as the reckless and unlawful use of firearms and abuse of power by some security operatives.

According to Amnesty International, the first victim, Musa Adamu, died a few hours after the incident. The second victim, Mallam Suleiman Salisu, later succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, 28 January, while receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja.

Amnesty International urged the DSS to ensure that the personnel involved are thoroughly investigated and that any suspect found culpable is brought to justice through a fair and transparent trial. The organisation warned that the alleged killings represent a gross violation of human rights that must not be ignored or covered up.

“While security personnel are mandated to protect lives and property, some are gradually unleashing terror on society,” the organisation said, adding that such actions create a toxic climate of fear, corruption, and impunity.

Amnesty International noted that repeated incidents of this nature undermine public trust in security institutions and leave citizens vulnerable to abuses.

The group also referenced a previous incident on 7 September 2023, when a DSS operative reportedly shot and killed a fashion designer at Garki International Market, Abuja, during an altercation linked to a personal dispute involving the operative’s girlfriend and her tailor.

Amnesty International further expressed concern that, beyond their core mandate of maintaining law and order, some security personnel have increasingly involved themselves in civil matters.

In some cases, the organisation alleged, operatives have tortured individuals over contractual, business, and other non-criminal disputes.