The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified its offensive against criminal networks with the arrest of suspects linked to child trafficking, illegal arms diversion and telecommunications infrastructure vandalism across different parts of the country.
The operations, conducted by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS), led to the rescue of 15 trafficked minors, recovery of an AK-47 rifle allegedly stolen by a serving officer and the dismantling of a network involved in the vandalism and resale of telecommunications equipment.
According to a statement issued by the Corps’ National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commandant of Corps Babawale Afolabi, the operations were carried out under the zero-tolerance policy of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, against crime, corruption and the destruction of national assets.
The child trafficking investigation began after a petition over missing children in Kokona LGA of Nasarawa State. Investigators allegedly discovered that Anderson Archibong had been using a purported NGO and a “Back to School Project” to gain the confidence of low-income parents before taking their children. Sixteen children were reportedly trafficked in January and sold for ₦2 million each.
Intelligence operations subsequently led to the rescue of 15 of the minors in Anambra, Imo, Enugu and other eastern transit locations. Three alleged buyers identified as Joy Julius, Ngozi and Eze Lazarus were arrested and reportedly confessed to the offences, while the search for the remaining minor continues.
The Corps also reported a serious breach of its internal security system following the disappearance of an AK-47 rifle assigned to CAII Igah Ameh James of the CG’s Crack Squad. Investigators alleged that James deserted his post and transported the weapon to Otukpo, Benue State, where he sold it to Abakpa Simon Anthony for ₦700,000. The firearm was later sold to Sunday Akor, alias IBB, for ₦800,000 before NSCDC operatives recovered it with two empty magazines.
In Adamawa State, an armoury audit led to the arrest of ASCI Peter Ardo, a former Head of Armoury, and CCA Boniface B. Lawyer over the alleged illegal removal and sale of two unserviceable G3 rifles. Meanwhile, in Delta State, the Corps arrested Henry Dennis with 12 vandalized telecom panels, with investigations allegedly uncovering a wider network involving financier Yusuf Musa and fleeing accomplices.
The NSCDC said administrative and disciplinary proceedings involving implicated personnel had been concluded and that its Directorate of Legal Services had been directed to commence prosecution. The Corps reaffirmed its resolve to protect critical national infrastructure, vulnerable citizens and the integrity of its ranks.
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