In a significant operation, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested five individuals linked to illegal firearms possession, gunrunning, banditry, kidnapping, and job racketeering in Nasarawa State.
The arrest, carried out by the NSCDC Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, was confirmed by spokesperson Babawale Afolabi in a statement released on Thursday, February 6, 2025.
According to the statement, the five suspects were apprehended for their roles in the illicit trade of firearms and their involvement in criminal activities. Among the weapons seized during the operation were two automatic rifles with three magazines, an AK-47 with 15 rounds of ammunition, a FN rifle with two rounds, nine locally-made pistols, one live cartridge, a bayonet, and two Nigerian Forest Security Services uniforms.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Umar Ibrahim (35), Nura Abubakar (20), and Mohammed Sule (20). They were caught in Ukoso Komva Ward, Wamba Local Government Area, while attempting to deliver the illegal weapons to a buyer.
During questioning, the suspects revealed they had been lured into the crime by a man named Ali, who is currently evading arrest.
In a separate case, Felix Clerkson (62) was arrested in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area for job racketeering. Authorities discovered over 120 fraudulent NSCDC appointment letters used to scam job seekers. Felix confessed to defrauding individuals of over ₦26 million, although investigations suggest the total amount could reach ₦55 million. This money was shared with his accomplices, who remain at large.
Additionally, a volunteer with the Nigerian Forest Security Services in Bauchi, Lar Changkur, was arrested for suspected involvement in gunrunning.
The NSCDC confirmed that all suspects will face legal proceedings upon the completion of investigations, and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
