Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, says it has arrested 16 suspects linked to a network of criminal activities in Kano and Edo states following coordinated intelligence-led operations.
The arrests were carried out by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG-SIS) in collaboration with the NSCDC Kano State Command and security operatives attached to BUA Cement in Okpella, Edo State.
According to a statement issued by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the suspects are believed to be connected to kidnapping-related activities, illegal mining, unlawful possession of firearms, criminal trespass, and counterfeit currency operations.
Preliminary investigations revealed that some of the suspects were allegedly involved in the movement of illegal arms, while others were apprehended for unauthorised mining within restricted areas around the Okpella axis of Edo State.
During the operations, NSCDC operatives recovered locally fabricated rifles, suspected charms, mining tools, and materials believed to be used in the production of counterfeit foreign currency.
The Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and vigilance in dismantling the suspected criminal network.
“The Corps will continue to deploy intelligence-led operations to dismantle criminal networks threatening national security and economic stability,” Audi said.
He directed investigators to intensify efforts to track down other suspects currently at large and ensure that all those found culpable are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding critical national assets, and supporting Nigeria’s internal security architecture.
