The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has thwarted an attempt by individuals to manufacture locally-made rifles and pistols in Abuja. The NSCDC Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation apprehended seven suspects involved in the illegal activity, following surveillance and monitoring efforts.
According to NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the suspects were identified as Amos Iyawo, Jonah Mannaseh, Ezekiel Nannim, Naifa Pando, Euphemia Peter, Faith Gadang, and Philemon Karam. Iyawo was identified as the team leader and recruiter, with none of the rifles or pistols having been sold as production had just commenced.
The suspects were found in possession of five fabricated rifles, one pistol, one unfinished rifle, seven empty cartridges, and various tools and equipment used in the production process. They will be handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
In a separate incident, NSCDC operatives in Ondo State arrested an alleged kidnapper, Dairu Abdullahi, at Eti-Ose River Forest, Owol Local Government Area, after a gun duel. Abdullahi and his gang had collected N6.2 million ransom from their recent victim before his arrest.
Another individual, Uyobon Jim, was arrested for serving as an informant to the kidnappers and engaging in marijuana cultivation. Additionally, three suspected kidnappers, Isiaku Jubril, Nura Idris, and Mohammed Sulieman, were arrested at Abusoro camp, Ipele Forest Reserve, Owo council, while attempting to kidnap their victim. Items recovered from the suspects include two locally made guns, three cutlasses, four mobile phones, and one NYSC uniform.
