NSCDC Arrests 39 Over Illegal Private Guard Training in Akwa Ibom Crackdown

(NSCDC. Photo by Thisdaylive)

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the arrest of 39 suspects following a crackdown on an unlicensed organisation operating as a Private Guard Company in Akwa Ibom State.

Akwa Ibom State Commandant Mrs. Geraldine Abetianbe disclosed this to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday, revealing that the organisation, known as Uniquely Network Rescue Services, had been conducting unauthorised paramilitary-style training and recruiting young people under false pretences.

Acting on intelligence, NSCDC operatives raided the group’s training facility on May 29, apprehending 17 existing members and 22 new recruits, including the Uyo Coordinator.

Items recovered during the raid included wooden guns, uniforms, training manuals, and membership forms. All suspects are currently being profiled to determine the true intentions of the group.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the organisation operated without the required Private Guard Company licence under the NSCDC Act 2003, and that its headquarters is located outside Akwa Ibom State.

Abetianbe flagged the use of wooden guns as a serious red flag, warning it could be a cover for militia training.

Expressing concern over the timing, the Commandant noted that with the 2027 general elections approaching, the recruitment and paramilitary training of young Nigerians by an unlicensed group raises serious suspicions.

She stressed that the NSCDC would not tolerate any organisation operating outside the law, and reminded the public that the Corps remains the sole agency legally empowered to license and regulate Private Guard Companies in Nigeria.

She urged parents to be vigilant about the groups their children join, and confirmed that all culpable suspects would be charged in court once investigations and profiling are completed.