By Izunna Okafor, Awka
No fewer than five suspected illegal security personnel have been apprehended in Anambra State for allegedly mounting road blocks and using gun the intimidate and extort road users.
The ‘fake’ security men who wore black security vest crested “AVG Special Squad”, were arrested by the operatives of the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who also recovered at least three Pump Action guns from them.
According to a statement issued by the Spokesperson of the NSCDC, Anambra State Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin, the arrested suspects were paraded on Thursday at the Command’s Headquarters, Awka, by the State Commandant of NSCDC, Commandant Maku Olatunde.
He revealed that the suspects, who are all males, were arrested at an illegal roadblock in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area of the State, extorting money from motorists while causing untold hardships to the road users, further noting that the arrest of the suspects was part of the Corps determination to eliminate impersonators and individuals who hide under the cover of private security guard to perpetrate crimes.
According to him, the suspects include: Ekene Erigaka (aged 27 years, from Ehime Mbano, Imo State); Emeka Eze (aged 28 years, from Oraukwu, Anambra State); Ugoma Prosper (aged 20 years, from Okohia Ihiala, Anambra State); Obiuto Eze (aged 42 years, from Isialangwa South, Abia State); and Victor Nnadi (aged 34 years, from Uli, Ihiala L.G.A. of Anambra State.)
Quoting the Commandant, the NSCDC Spokesman said, “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, wearing 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.”
Continuing, SC Okadigbo said the NSCDC Commandant 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, adding that unlicensed security outfits would not be tolerated, and those engaging in such practices will be caught and brought to book.
He said the State NSCDC Boss, while appreciating Ndị Anambra for their support to to the Corps, also urged members of the public to always 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,” SC Okadigbo added.
