The Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday issued a security alert to the Nigeria Railway Corporation about a potential attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train service.

In a memo signed by the DSS Director for the Federal Capital Territory Command, R.N. Adepemu, the agency warned train passengers to be security conscious due to intelligence of a planned attack.

“Intelligence report indicates impending threat to seamless train transportation along the Abuja ~ Kaduna Train Service (AKTS),” the statement read. “The development is sequel to the plot by a coalition of banditry syndicate to attack Abuja ~ Kaduna Train Service aimed at kidnapping passengers on board for ransom any moment from now.”

The DSS advised several security measures be put in place, including air surveillance, checkpoints, raids around Byazhin, Jibi and Ja forest, and boosting escorts via walkie-talkies.

The agency said the threat was not yet public but could heighten fears after previous fatal attacks along the route that left casualties. It emphasized discreetly managing the intelligence to avoid panic.

Train service on the Abuja-Kaduna line was temporarily suspended after the March 2022 attack. The DSS warning comes amidst efforts to restore operations on the important transportation link.

Security experts said the alert highlights the need for heightened vigilance and military action to counter persistent threats along the corridor. The government has pledged to make the train service safe again for the public.