The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 39 individuals and sealed off a facility allegedly operating as an unlicensed private guard company in Akwa Ibom State.
The Commandant of the NSCDC in the state, Geraldine Abetianbe, disclosed this in Uyo, stating that the group, identified as Uniquely Network Rescue Services, was operating without approval and engaging in unauthorised paramilitary-style training.
According to her, the operation was carried out on May 29 following intelligence reports, leading operatives to the group’s training ground where suspects were apprehended, including a coordinator and several recruits.
She explained that 17 active members and 22 new trainees were arrested during the raid. Items recovered from the scene included wooden rifles, uniforms, training manuals, and registration documents.
Preliminary findings, she said, showed that the organisation had no valid Private Guard Company licence as required by law and was not registered under the regulatory framework of the NSCDC. Investigations also indicated that the group’s headquarters was located outside Akwa Ibom State.
Abetianbe expressed concern over the nature of the training, describing the use of wooden firearms and military-style drills as a potential cover for unlawful mobilisation. She warned that such activities could pose security risks, especially as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to build up.
She added that the Corps would not tolerate any group operating outside legal boundaries or engaging in activities capable of undermining public peace and security.
The Commandant further urged parents and guardians to be cautious about organisations their children join, warning that some groups could disguise illegal operations under the guise of security training.
She confirmed that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of profiling and investigation.