NSCDC Arrests 17 Suspects Linked to Officer’s Murder and Oil Attacks

The NSCDC arrested a gang of 17 suspects linked to the murder of an officer and attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta. The army was involved in prior violent incidents, including targeting the Petroleum Minister’s residence. Ongoing investigations and recovery of weapons highlight the seriousness of these crimes.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended a 17-member gang accused of murdering a corps officer on January 12, 2025. The arrests were made by the Commandant-General’s Special Intelligence Squad in collaboration with other agencies. The gang was on the watchlist of the NSCDC and the Tantita Security Service due to their criminal activities.

This syndicate was previously implicated in an assault on a jointly operated base of the NSCDC and Tantita Security Service, where an Assistant Superintendent was killed, and firearms were taken. Investigations suggest that the group has also been engaged in violent attacks on oil and gas installations in the Niger Delta region.

Additionally, preliminary findings indicate that the gang was involved in the assault on the residence of Petroleum Minister Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri on January 1. Ongoing investigations will lead to the suspects being arraigned in court. Among the recovered items from the suspects were an AK47 rifle, empty magazines, military uniforms, and boots.

Afolabi Babawale, NSCDC spokesman, praised Commandant-General Ahmed Audi for providing necessary logistics that facilitated the operation. Babawale emphasized that the Commandant-General’s support has been crucial for the corps in fighting illegal bunkering and other criminal activities.

The NSCDC’s arrest of 17 suspects involved in the killing of an officer and attacks on oil and gas installations demonstrates proactive measures to enhance security in the Niger Delta. The ongoing investigations will further clarify the group’s activities and their connections to significant criminal incidents. The support from the Commandant-General is vital for carrying out these operations effectively.

Original Source: www.nationalaccordnewspaper.com