The FCT Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against criminal elements, parading 42 suspected bandits arrested in a forest at Gwagwalada area of the territory.
In a press briefing at the Command’s Headquarters in Abuja, the FCT NSCDC Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, disclosed that the operation, conducted in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, resulted in the successful interception and arrest of the 42 male suspects who were on transit from Zamfara state.
According to Odumosu, the suspects, apprehended based on credible intelligence reports, claimed to be miners heading to a mining site. However, during interrogation, they failed to provide details about the mining site and the company they allegedly worked for, raising suspicions of a sinister motive.
“Because of their number, my men had to seek the intervention of the Army to aid in the successful arrest of the suspects. We suspect they are fleeing the ongoing military operation in Zamfara state as they all claimed to have migrated from the state,” explained Odumosu.
The Commandant mentioned that the suspected bandits are cooperating by providing information that could help determine their level of involvement in criminal activities. Additionally, they have confessed to having sponsors, prompting an ongoing investigation.
In a separate arrest, 27-year-old Bartholomew Anthony was apprehended in Mabushi area of the FCT for possession of stolen armored cables and other tools. Anthony’s arrest led to the identification and apprehension of three other accomplices who, according to Odumosu, belong to a vigilante group and misuse their affiliation with the private security outfit for criminal acts.
The NSCDC assured the public that further investigation would be carried out, and those found culpable would be charged to court. The Command Head emphasized their commitment to eradicating criminal elements in the FCT and urged residents to report any suspicious activity, assuring the confidentiality of informants.
