The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested five individuals suspected of involvement in illegal firearms possession, gunrunning, kidnapping, banditry, and job racketeering in Nasarawa State.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, February 6, 2025, by the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, the arrests were carried out by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad.
“The squad arrested five suspects who were allegedly involved in illegal possession of firearms, gunrunning, kidnapping, banditry, and job racketeering,” the statement read.
Security operatives recovered a significant cache of weapons, including two automatic rifles with three magazines, one AK-47 rifle loaded with 15 live rounds of ammunition, one FN rifle with two live rounds, nine locally fabricated pistols, one live cartridge, a bayonet, and two sets of uniforms from the Nigerian Forest Security Services.
The suspects were identified as Umar Ibrahim (35), Nura Abubakar (20), and Mohammed Sule (20). They were apprehended in Ukoso Komva Ward, Wamba Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, while attempting to deliver illegal arms to a potential buyer.
During interrogation, the suspects claimed they were deceived into participating in the illegal trade by a man identified as Ali, who is currently at large.
In a related development, NSCDC operatives also arrested Felix Clerkson (62) in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area for job racketeering. Authorities recovered over 120 fake NSCDC appointment letters, which were allegedly used to defraud unsuspecting job seekers.
“Felix admitted to defrauding desperate job seekers of over ₦26 million. However, ongoing investigations suggest the total amount may be as high as ₦55 million, which he shared with accomplices who are currently on the run,” the NSCDC statement revealed.
Additionally, Lar Changkur, a volunteer with the Nigerian Forest Security Services in Bauchi State, was arrested for his suspected involvement in gunrunning activities.
The NSCDC has assured that all suspects will face charges in court upon the conclusion of investigations. The corps also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
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