By Halimah Olamide
The Department of State Security on Thursday said it has taken over the medical expenses of two victims of shootings which took place at the Garki Market in Abuja last week.
NPO Reported that officials of the service had visited the market after a disagreement with a tailor who was shot in his shop.
A stray bullet had also hit another woman in the process.
Officials of the DSS had hurriedly driven out of the market when those present made efforts to apprehend them.
In a statement by Peter Ifunaya, spokesman of the service on Thursday, he said taking over the bills of the victims did not however amount to admission of guilt by its operatives.
The DSS had issued a statement in respect of the 7th September, 2023 incident.
“This is to further inform the public that the Service has constituted an in-house investigative team on the matter. While the inquiry is ongoing, the Service has visited the two injured persons at the different hospitals where they are receiving treatment. It committed to the payment of the medical bills and made required deposits in this regard.”
The DSS said it’s action was to show sincerity of purpose at the time of the visits adding that 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 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. The Service’s position is not only to ensure justice for the victims, but it is in line with its avowed commitment to transparency, accountability and rule of law. Nevertheless, updates of this nature will always be made available till the matter is finally resolved.”