NSCDC Arrests Five Suspected Illegal Security Operatives, Recovers Pump-Action Rifle

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested five suspected illegal private security operatives and recovered a pump-action rifle during a series of coordinated raids in Awka ahead of the November 8 gubernatorial election.

Speaking while parading the suspects at the State Command Headquarters, Awka, on Tuesday, the State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, said the operation followed credible intelligence reports about individuals posing as private security personnel, allegedly hired by political actors to disrupt the forthcoming election.

According to him, the raids, which targeted various hotels and grocery stores in Awka around 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, led to the arrest of five suspects identified as Mmeka Ekene (43), Peter Detuchi Kelvin (28), Sunday Akpan Idiong (45), Enemuo Ifeanyichukwu (26), and Francis Ugochukwu Nwosu (28).

Commandant Maku explained that the operation, carried out by the Private Guard Companies Department, was part of ongoing efforts to flush out criminal elements and unlicensed security groups that could pose threats to peace and security during the election period.

“We are resolute in our commitment to providing a secure environment for the conduct of the forthcoming gubernatorial election,” Maku said. “The Command will not be swayed by individuals pretending to be private security operatives in a bid to disrupt the electoral process.”

He added that the NSCDC has intensified surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations to forestall any attempts by political thugs or disruptive elements to compromise the integrity of the polls.

“In collaboration with other security agencies, we will take all necessary measures within our operational guidelines to ensure Anambra remains peaceful and secure,” the Commandant stated.

The NSCDC said the suspects are currently being interrogated and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.