The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, made a significant breakthrough by apprehending 42 suspected bandits who had disguised themselves as miners of solid minerals. Commandant Olusola Odumosu revealed this during a parade of the suspects at the command headquarters.
According to Odumosu, the arrest was made possible through credible intelligence and collaboration with the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army. The operation took place in Niger State, specifically in the forest of Tsaumi Village bordering Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area.
Initial investigations suggested that the suspects, although posing as miners, were likely fleeing the military operation in Zamfara State. They were intercepted while attempting to enter the Federal Capital Territory through Gwagwalada Area Council en route to Pai Village of Kwali Area Council.
Upon interrogation, the suspects failed to provide evidence of their purported mining activities, raising suspicions about their true intentions. Further investigation revealed their involvement in criminal activities across Zamfara, Kogi, and Niger states.
The NSCDC emphasized that the suspects are cooperating with authorities, providing valuable information to determine their level of involvement in banditry and kidnapping activities in the FCT. Once investigations are concluded, appropriate actions will be taken against them.
In addition to the apprehension of the suspected bandits, the NSCDC also arrested four individuals belonging to a syndicate involved in the vandalism and theft of armoured cables within the FCT.
