Alarming reports have surfaced from Southwestern Nigeria, where local hunters have accused operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and military personnel of compromising joint security efforts through corruption and misconduct.
According to Dalena Reporters, the hunters disclosed that some DSS operatives have been abusing sophisticated telephone tracking technology—originally intended to identify and rescue kidnap victims—by allegedly collecting payments from kidnappers in exchange for concealing their locations. Some of these officers were reportedly arrested and transported to Abuja in leg chains.
In a similarly troubling narrative, the hunters alleged that soldiers involved in joint patrols have been sidelined due to "transactional" behaviors that have eroded trust. These include open extortion of motorists at informal checkpoints, careless conduct during operations leading to the loss of hunters' lives, and inappropriate relationships with local women—funded by bribes extorted at roadside "toll gates." Drivers allegedly hand over ₦500 notes and ask for ₦200 change in full view of the public, as soldiers collect these tolls openly, turning national security checkpoints into cash points.
Disturbed by the worsening situation, the hunters stated they are reverting to traditional methods of protecting their communities. One chilling warning was the mention of "Magun"—a deadly traditional trap used to punish sexual offenders—suggesting that local men are ready to deploy ancient justice to defend their families.
These revelations have sparked outrage and concern over the integrity of Nigeria's security apparatus, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and accountability within the nation's security agencies.