By Kingsley Omonobi
Troops of Joint Task Force South East Operation Udoka have busted an illegal arms supply network involving 2 NSCDC officers and one officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service for allegedly selling arms to criminal elements in the South East.
In this regard, troops arrested Assistant Superintendent II Obaji Sampson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi, Unit Armourer of the NSCDC Enugu State Command, and Assistant Superintendent of Corrections Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement.
A statement by the Nigerian Army said the arrests are in furtherance of the continued offensive against criminal elements across the South East, which recorded successes through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other security agencies.
“The operations led to the arrest of several suspects involved in criminal activities and the recovery of arms, ammunition and other incriminating items, further strengthening efforts to enhance security in the region,” the statement said.
“In Cross River State, troops of 245 Battalion, in conjunction with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), conducted a raid at Balep Community along the Ikom–Ogoja Road.
“During the operation, three suspects were arrested, while troops recovered 2 Dane guns, one locally made pistol, 6 cartridges, military web equipment, a woodland camouflage jacket, a strike-face metal plate, an axe and substances suspected to be cannabis, among other items. Preliminary investigation is ongoing.
“In a separate operation, intelligence from the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade led to the arrest of Assistant Superintendent II Obaji Sampson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) by troops of 82 Division Provost Group and Sector 2 Operation Udoka.
“Further investigation led to the arrest of Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi, Unit Armourer of the NSCDC Enugu State Command, identified as the principal supplier, and Assistant Superintendent of Corrections Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement, identified as a major recipient.
“The arrests exposed a suspected illegal arms supply network.
“Following additional intelligence, troops of 82 Division Garrison and Sector 1 Operation UDO KA, in conjunction with the 82 Division Provost Group, raided a residence at Achara Road, Trans-Ekulu, Golf Estate, Enugu State, where a suspected IPOB/ESN member and gun runner, Friday Nnanna, was arrested.
“Troops recovered 247 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 12 rounds of 9mm pistol ammunition, 29 live cartridges, 4 pump-action guns, one Beretta pistol, 11 different vehicle registration plates, improvised explosive device-making materials, assorted swords, one smoke tear gas canister, military accoutrements, other sundry items and four vehicles.
“The suspect and recovered items are in military custody for further investigation.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to sustaining intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements and their support networks.
“Troops will continue to work with other security agencies to deny criminals freedom of action, protect lives and property, and support ongoing efforts to enhance peace, security and stability across the country.”
