NSCDC Officers Arrested for Alleged Arms Supply to Militants
In a significant crackdown on illegal arms trafficking, troops from the Joint Task Force South East Operation Udoka have arrested two officers from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and one officer from the Nigerian Correctional Service. The suspects, identified as Assistant Superintendent II Obaji Sampson, Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi, and Assistant Superintendent of Corrections Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement, are accused of selling arms to criminal groups in the South East region.
The Nigerian Army reported that these arrests are part of a broader offensive against criminal elements, which has seen success through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with various security agencies. The operations have led to the apprehension of multiple suspects involved in criminal activities and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and other incriminating items, thereby bolstering security efforts in the region.
In a related operation in Cross River State, troops from the 245 Battalion, in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), conducted a raid at Balep Community along the Ikom–Ogoja Road. This operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of two Dane guns, a locally made pistol, six cartridges, military web equipment, and substances suspected to be cannabis, among other items. Investigations are ongoing.
The arrests of the NSCDC officers were facilitated by intelligence from the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade, leading to their apprehension by troops from the 82 Division Provost Group and Sector 2 Operation Udoka. Further investigations revealed Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi as the principal supplier of arms, while Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement was identified as a major recipient in the illegal arms supply network.
Additionally, troops raided a residence in Enugu State, where they arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and gun runner, Friday Nnanna. This operation yielded a significant cache of weapons, including 247 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 12 rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, and four pump-action guns, among other items. The suspect and the recovered materials are currently in military custody for further investigation.
The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to conducting intelligence-driven operations against criminal networks, aiming to protect lives and property while enhancing peace and stability across the country.
