The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra has apprehended five individuals posing as private security guards and recovered three pump-action guns. This arrest was part of a crackdown on illegal activities within the state. The state Commandant of the NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, revealed the operation during a media briefing held in Awka, according to a statement signed by Okadigbo Edwin, the Superintendent of Corps and Head of Media and Tactical Ops, Anambra State Command.

Olatunde shared that the suspects were caught on Thursday at an unauthorized roadblock in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, where they were extorting money from motorists and causing severe disruptions. He emphasized that the NSCDC remains committed to removing impersonators who operate under the guise of private security guards to engage in criminal activities.

The arrested individuals include Ekene Erigaka, 27, from Imo State; Emeka Eze, 28, from Oraukwu in Anambra; Ugoma Prosper, 20, from Ihiala; Obiuto Eze, 42, from Abia State; and Victor Nnadi, 34, from Uli in Anambra. These suspects were spotted wearing black T-shirts labeled “AVG Special Squad” while manning an illegal checkpoint, prompting the NSCDC to act swiftly, in collaboration with the local vigilante group.

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Preliminary investigations suggest that such roadblocks could be linked to more serious crimes like robberies, extortions, and kidnappings. Olatunde stated that the NSCDC is determined to eliminate all forms of crime in the state, stressing that unlicensed security outfits will not be tolerated.

He praised the efforts of the Private Guards Company Department for their swift action in apprehending the suspects and warned that anyone found operating without proper licensing would be prosecuted. The public was also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by private security personnel to the NSCDC. The Corps reassured residents of its ongoing commitment to improving security and regulating private security operations across the state.