In a concerted effort to maintain security and combat illegal activities in Anambra State, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified its operations against unlicensed private security guards. During a recent crackdown in Awka, the NSCDC arrested eight individuals who were operating as private guards without proper authorization. Among the apprehended suspects were employees of the Rapid Response Squad (RSS), who were detained at Kwata Junction in Awka.

The Anambra State Commandant of the NSCDC, Olatunde Maku, disclosed that the arrests were made following a raid conducted by NSCDC operatives on Thursday, April 25, 2024. Alongside the arrests, the NSCDC seized four pump action guns along with 16 live cartridges from the suspects. Preliminary investigations revealed that some of the apprehended individuals were posing as members of the Anambra Vigilance Group, while others were hired by hotels for security services, despite lacking proper licensing or registration.

Addressing the media while parading the suspects at the NSCDC headquarters in Awka, Maku emphasized the agency’s commitment to regulating the private security sector, particularly in light of prevailing security challenges. He reiterated the NSCDC’s determination to clamp down on all illegal security outfits, arrest and prosecute their operators, and recover illegal weapons in their possession. Maku underscored the significance of the ongoing raid in curbing the proliferation of illegal security outfits, reducing security breaches, and enhancing public safety in Anambra State.

Furthermore, Maku warned all illegal security outfits to cease their operations immediately or face severe consequences. He affirmed that the suspects are currently undergoing thorough investigation and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. The NSCDC’s stringent measures aim to restore order in the private security sector and ensure the safety and security of all residents in Anambra State.