The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 20 suspects across several states for offences ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to terrorism and infrastructure vandalism, as part of its intensified efforts to strengthen national security.
The agency’s National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja, noting that the arrests were made by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad between October and November 2025, following directives from the Commandant General, Ahmed Audi.
According to Afolabi, eight of the suspects were apprehended for alleged involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, and murder. Two others were identified as terrorist or militia members linked to recent communal attacks, while five were arrested for dealing in stolen goods tied to criminal activities.
Additionally, two suspects were nabbed for vandalising installations belonging to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), and three others were arrested for their alleged involvement in fraud and related offences.
The operations, carried out in Abuja, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and Ondo States, underscore what Afolabi described as the Corps’ resolve that “there is no hiding place for persons with criminal intentions in the country.”
During interrogation, investigators discovered that a kidnapping syndicate had killed two victims in Nasarawa after collecting ransom. A member of the group reportedly confessed to taking part in attacks in Yelwata (Benue State) and Qua’an-Pan (Plateau State).
Recovered items from the suspects include two AK-47 rifles, two G3 rifles, 65 rounds of live ammunition, a Toyota Corolla (2010 model) stolen at gunpoint, four motorcycles, electronics, charms, cash, and several mobile phones.
Afolabi reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that all suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
“We urge Nigerians to continue providing actionable intelligence to the NSCDC and other security agencies to help us clamp down on criminal activities nationwide,” he said.
Meanwhile, the NSCDC Kano State Command separately confirmed the arrest of a suspected motorcycle thief and an illegal drug dealer in Kumbotso Local Government Area, acting on credible intelligence.
