The Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested five suspected illegal private security operatives and recovered a pump-action rifle during a series of raids in Awka.
The state Commandant, Maku Olatunde, disclosed that the raids, carried out on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, around 11:00 a.m., targeted various hotels and grocery stores following credible intelligence about individuals dressed in security uniforms who may have been hired by political actors to incite violence during the forthcoming governorship election.
“The NSCDC is committed to ridding Anambra State of individuals masquerading as private security operatives,” Olatunde said while parading the suspects at the State Command Headquarters on Wednesday.
“The operation also aimed to curb illegal possession of firearms, prevent emerging security threats, and stop any acts of intimidation that could undermine the peaceful conduct of the election scheduled for November 8, 2025.”
The arrested suspects are: Mmeka Ekene, 43; Peter Detuchi Kelvin, 28; Sunday Akpan Idiong, 45; Enemuo Ifeanyichukwu, 26; and Francis Ugochukwu Nwosu, 28.
They are currently undergoing interrogation and will face court proceedings upon the conclusion of investigations.
Olatunde stressed that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, would continue to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering to thwart any attempts by disruptive elements or politically motivated groups seeking to destabilise peace in the state.
“We will not be swayed by individuals pretending to be private security operatives to disrupt the electoral process,” he added, assuring residents that all necessary measures would be taken to maintain security and ensure a peaceful election.