By Ikemefuna Asika
The Anambra State Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence, (NSCDC) has arrested five suspected illegal private security guards with three pump – action guns.
This was disclosed by Commandant Maku Olatunde, the NSCDC State Commandant on Thursday October 3, 2024 in Awka while parading the suspects.
According to a press release signed by Superintendent of Corps Okadigbo Edwin, Head of Media and Tactical Ops NSCDC Anambra State Command,
Comdt. Maku said the suspects were arrested at an illegal road block in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State extorting money from motorists while causing untold hardships to the road users. He stressed that the arrest of the suspects were part of the Corps determination to eliminate impersonators and undesirable elements who hide under the cover of private security guard to perpetuate crime.
The suspects include Ekene Erigaka ‘m’ 27 years from Ihime Mbano , Imo State, Emeka Eze ‘m’ 28 years from Oraukwu, Anambra State, Ugoma Prosper ‘m’ 20 years from Okohia Ihiala, Obiuto EZE ‘m’ 42 years from Isialangwa South, Abia State and Victor Nnadi ‘m’ 34 years from Uli in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State.
According to the release, “On Thursday 3/ 10/ 2024 at about 1630hrs , based on credible Intelligence received that a group of five suspected illegal security guards were sighted at a roadblock in Nteje on black T-shirt crested “AVG Special Squad” , the command quickly mobilized operatives of Private Guard Company (PGC) Department in collaboration with Nteje Vigilante Group to the scene and arrested the suspects.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that this kind of Illegal checkpoint can facilitate robberies, extortions, abductions and the targeted killings of civilians and state actors.
“They are among those making it difficult and hard for average citizens to pursue their legitimate business.
“We are resolute and determined to rid the state of every form of crime and criminality in accordance with our Corps mandate”.
He commended the Private Guards Company Department for their relentless efforts in the fight against illegal operators of private security outfits and for prompt response in apprehending the suspects, a strong message that unlicensed security outfits would not be tolerated, and those engaging in such practices will be caught to face the consequences of their actions in a competent court of jurisdiction.
The State NSCDC boss while appreciating the good people of the State for their support to NSCDC, urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities of private security guards or outfits to the nearest NSCDC office.
He maintained that the NSCDC, as the regulatory body overseeing the licensing, monitoring, and supervision of private security companies, will continue to sanitize the industry to address the escalating security challenges facing the country.
