The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra Command, has arrested five suspected illegal private security guards for alleged possession of three pump action guns.
The Commandant of NSCDC, Anambra Command, Mr Olatunde Maku, while briefing newsmen on Friday in Awka, said the suspects were apprehended on Oct. 3.
Maku said that the suspects were apprehended at an illegal road block within Nteje community in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra following intelligence reports.
He said the suspects were allegedly extorting money from motorists and causing untold hardships to road users.
According to him, Ekene Erigaka, 27, from Imo State; Obiuto Eze, 42, from Abia; Emeka Eze, 28; Prosper Ugoma, 20; Victor Nnadi, 34; the three suspects from Anambra, were apprehended by NSCDC patrol team.
“The command mobilised its patrol team and operatives of a private guard company in collaboration with Nteje Vigilante Group to the scene and apprehended the suspects.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that this kind of illegal checkpoint can facilitate robberies, extortion, abductions and the targeted killings of civilians and state actors.
“They are among those making it difficult for average citizens to pursue their legitimate businesses.
“We are determined to rid the state of every form of crime and criminality in accordance with our corps’ mandate,” he said.
Maku said the corps would work to restore sanity in the operations of private security guards, as well as ensure the safety and security of residents of Anambra.
He also urged the public to report any suspicious activities or illegal security outfits/guards to the corps for prompt action.