The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arraigned four suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) over their alleged involvement in the abduction and killing of its officer, Ekpeyong Asuquo Owoh.
The suspects were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a six-count charge bordering on terrorism and the kidnapping of a DSS operative.
The defendants are Michael Okafor, also known as Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Joseph Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, also known as Ability.
According to the prosecution, the defendants allegedly conspired to carry out acts of terrorism and abducted Owoh while he was travelling from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Awka, Anambra State.
They were further accused of holding the DSS officer hostage and causing his death during the alleged operation.
The prosecution also alleged that the defendants belonged to IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), and participated in activities linked to terrorism.
They were additionally accused of illegally possessing firearms, including AK-47 and pump-action rifles, allegedly used in connection with the offences.
When the charges were read to them, the four defendants pleaded not guilty.
DSS counsel, Munirat Oladunjoye, subsequently asked the court to fix a date for trial, informing the court that the prosecution had three witnesses lined up to testify.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed October 6 for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody.
Kelvin Ekwe appeared as counsel to the defendants during the arraignment.