In a decisive operation, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dismantled a clandestine operation involved in the illicit manufacturing of local rifles and pistols within the confines of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Simultaneously, in another significant development, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Plateau State has apprehended an individual masquerading as a medical doctor, marking a critical victory against healthcare imposters.
In an official statement released yesterday, NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, disclosed that the thwarted criminal enterprise came to light thanks to actionable intelligence received by the NSCDC Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation under Surveillance and Monitoring (DII-SM). Acting swiftly on the information, operatives apprehended seven suspects who were caught red-handed in the act of manufacturing semi-automatic rifles and pistols within the Moshood Abiola National Stadium area in Abuja.
The arrested individuals, identified as Amos Iyawo, Jonah Mannaseh, Ezekiel Nannim, Naifa Pando, Euphemia Peter, Faith Gadang, and Philemon Karam, were reportedly led by Amos Iyawo, the alleged mastermind behind the operation. According to Afolabi, the suspects confessed that the production was in its nascent stages and no firearms had been sold thus far.
During the subsequent interrogations, Amos Iyawo purportedly admitted to sourcing materials for their operation during his stint with the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) in Durumi, Abuja. Upon apprehension, the NSCDC seized several fabricated rifles, a pistol, ammunition, and assorted tools used in the manufacturing process.
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to combat illicit activities nationwide. Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Commandant-General of NSCDC, emphasized the pivotal role of intelligence gathering in preempting and thwarting criminal endeavors.
In a parallel development, the Nigeria Medical Association in Plateau State, in collaboration with the state Ministry of Health, facilitated the apprehension of an individual masquerading as a medical practitioner. The imposter, identified as George Ossai or Kelvin Paul, was apprehended within the Jos metropolis and subsequently transferred to the state CID, Police headquarters in Jos for further investigation.
The NMA urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals claiming to be medical professionals. The association reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and upholding the integrity of the medical profession.
As both the NSCDC and NMA continue their efforts to safeguard public safety and health, they underscore the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the public in combating criminal activities and ensuring the provision of quality healthcare services.
