The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi State Command, has dismantled a suspected criminal hideout along the Ebonyi–Benue border in Izzi Local Government Area, recovering an AK-47 rifle and other dangerous weapons.
The operation followed a week-long intelligence-gathering exercise on the activities of suspected hoodlums and cult groups operating around the border communities.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Emmanuella Obianuju Ibeneme, the operation was conducted by operatives of the Intelligence and Investigation Department in collaboration with the Commandant’s Special Squad.
Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives carried out coordinated raids at different locations within the area, leading to the recovery of several weapons and suspected criminal exhibits.
Items recovered included an AK-47 rifle, a double magazine, four rounds of live ammunition, five knives, assorted charms, a locally made pistol and a pump-action gun.
The suspects and their alleged collaborators reportedly fled the hideout as security operatives closed in on the locations.
Addressing journalists at the State Command Headquarters, where he personally displayed the recovered items, the State Commandant, Francis Chika Nnadi, warned criminal elements against attempting to disrupt peace and security in Ebonyi, particularly ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
Nnadi said the Command was prepared to work with other security agencies to rid the state of criminal activities and ensure a safe environment for residents.
He assured residents of border communities and the wider state of adequate security before, during and after the elections.
The commandant also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible, timely and actionable intelligence to facilitate the identification and arrest of criminal suspects.
He reiterated the NSCDC’s commitment to intelligence-led operations, proactive crime prevention and the protection of lives and property, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to establish safe havens in Ebonyi State.
