NSCDC Smashes Border Gang Hideout In Ebonyi

Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi State Command, have dismantled a criminal syndicate operating along the Ebonyi-Benue border, recovering an AK-47 rifle, live ammunition, and various dangerous items during a targeted sting operation.

The operation, which targeted hideouts used by hoodlums and cult groups operating between Izzi Local Government Area in Ebonyi and neighboring Benue State, followed a week-long intelligence-gathering exercise.

The raid was jointly executed by operatives from the Command’s Intelligence and Investigation Department alongside the State Commandant’s Special Squad.

Briefing newsmen on Thursday at the Command Headquarters in Abakaliki, the State Commandant, Francis Nnadi, confirmed the success of the multi-location operation, highlighting the professional conduct of the officers during the raid on the fleeing suspects and their collaborators.

During the sweep of the enclave, security operatives recovered the following items: 1 AK-47 rifle, 1 double-loaded magazine, 4 rounds of live ammunition, 1 locally-made pistol, 1 pump-action gun, 5 tactical knives, and assorted criminal charms.

Issuing a strong warning to criminal networks operating within the state, Commandant Nnadi emphasized that the Command, in close synergy with sister security agencies, remains steadfast in wiping out criminality across Ebonyi.

“I want to warn criminal elements ahead of the general elections to flee Ebonyi State. The Command, in conjunction with other sister security agencies, is fully prepared to rid the state of all forms of crime and criminality,” Nnadi stated.

He further reassured residents in border areas and across the state of robust security coverage throughout the electoral season.

“I want to assure residents of the border communities and the entire state of adequate security before, during, and after the elections.”

“I urge the public to continue providing credible, timely information to assist security agencies in maintaining law and order,” he added.

Manhunt operations are currently underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.