The Taraba State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a 40-year-old man over alleged possession of a locally made firearm and involvement in illegal checkpoint activities in Kurmi Local Government Area.
The suspect, identified as Jonathan Wunuji, was apprehended on May 2 in Visaula town following what officials described as credible intelligence. He was subsequently paraded at the NSCDC state headquarters in Jalingo.
Speaking on Monday on behalf of the State Commandant, Anthony Bala Bitrus, the command’s spokesperson, Iliya Samaila, said the suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed locally fabricated pistol and two live cartridges.
According to Samaila, the suspect allegedly threatened to open fire on NSCDC operatives during the operation but was swiftly disarmed before carrying out the threat.
Preliminary investigations, the command said, indicate that Wunuji may have been working with accomplices to intimidate residents in the area.
Authorities further alleged that the suspect operated an illegal checkpoint where he extorted money from motorists and passersby, despite prior warnings from community leaders and security agencies.
The NSCDC stated that the suspect has confessed and will be charged to court accordingly.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling criminal activities, the command urged members of the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community intelligence remains vital to maintaining peace and security in Taraba State.
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