The Anambra command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has arrested eight suspected unlicensed private security guards with four pump action guns.

During the parade of the suspects in Awka on Thursday, Olatunde Maku, the NSCDC commandant of the state, said the arrest was effected sequel to intelligence reports.

Maku added that the suspects are undergoing investigation.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that some of the suspects were impersonating the Anambra Vigilance Group while others were hired by hotels to provide security services, in spite of knowing that the outfits were not licensed or registered,” NAN quoted the NSCDC commandant as saying.

“Meanwhile, four pump action guns with 16 live cartridges were also recovered from them.”

He said his team arrested Eze Emmanuel, 34, Patrick Nwoye, 27, Okafor Chibuike, 21, Tochukwu Chukwuemeka, 27, Kingsley Asuauo, 20, Blessed Mfonu, 22, Ikechukwu Emeka, 21 and Amu Emmanuel, 23.

“All the suspects are currently undergoing investigation, after which they would be charged to court and prosecuted,” he said.

“This raid is in continuation of the execution of the NSCDC mandate and we will not leave any stone unturned in discharging our responsibilities.”

Maku said the NSCDC is the only agency responsible for licensing, monitoring, and supervising private security outfits in Nigeria.

The commandant urged licensed private guard companies to adhere to the law and report any suspicious activities or security outfits to the corps for prompt action.

“I want to put all illegal security outfits on notice to dismantle their operations or face the consequences,” Maku added.

“We will clamp down on any illegal outfit, arrest and prosecute their operators, and recover illegal weapons in their possession.

“This is to restore sanity in the operations of the private security sector and ensure the safety and security of residents.”