Troops arrest NSCDC armourer and correctional officer over alleged illegal arms supply in Enugu

Troops of Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA have arrested an armourer attached to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and a correctional officer over alleged involvement in an illegal arms supply network in Enugu State.

The Army in a statement on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, disclosed that the arrests followed the interrogation of a suspected criminal apprehended at Igah Community on June 28, who allegedly identified his principal arms supplier as Superintendent Tasie Victor Nnamdi, an armourer with the NSCDC Enugu State Command.

Acting on the intelligence, troops conducted a targeted operation on June 29 and arrested the suspect at the New Market Filling Station in Enugu.

During preliminary interrogation, the NSCDC officer allegedly identified Chief Superintendent Augustine Mmuo of the NSCDC Delta State Command as his principal supplier of arms.

He also allegedly named Assistant Superintendent of Corrections Ekwueme Onyebuchi Clement, attached to the Arms Department of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu State Command, as one of his major customers.

Based on the information, troops conducted a follow-up sting operation at about 11:00 a.m. on June 30 and arrested the correctional officer at Okpara Square in Enugu.

A search of his vehicle led to the recovery of 30 rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition.

During interrogation, the correctional officer allegedly identified a civilian whom he claimed had supplied him with firearms on several occasions.

“Troops of Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA have continued offensive operations against criminal elements across the South East, recording significant successes through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other security agencies,” the statement read.

“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.

“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 UDO KA. 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.”

In a separate operation 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,” the statement read. 

“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.”