Agency Raise Alarm Over Small, Light Weapons’ Proliferation in Southeast

By Praise Chinecherem

National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has warned against illegal possession of arms and weapons in South-east geopolitical zone with a vow to prosecute offenders.

Zonal Director, Southeast, Major General Okechukwu Ugo (rtd), who stated this during an interactive session with the executive of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra Council, identified Anambra and Imo as states with more prevalent of unlicensed arms in the zone.

He noted that illegal possessions of arms led to insecurity, warning possessors of illegal arms to return them immediately or face the wrath of law which could also include facing 10 years imprisonment when caught.

He stated further that about 20,000 illegal arms have been recovered all over the country, but that over 10,000 had been destroyed after court rulings while others were facing legal actions.

He sought media partnership to educate the masses on dangers of illegal possession of arms, including why those qualified to possess them should apply through the appropriate channels specified by the law.

Earlier, State chairman of NUJ, Anambra Council, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, assured that journalists would give the centre maximum cooperation to enable them excel in their duties.