The Taraba State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested a 40-year-old man for allegedly operating an illegal checkpoint and possessing a firearm without licence in Kurmi Local Government Area.
The suspect, identified as Jonathan Wunuji, was apprehended on May 2 in Visaula community following intelligence reports. He was subsequently presented at the command’s headquarters in Jalingo.
Speaking on behalf of the State Commandant, Anthony Bala Bitrus, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Iliya Samaila, disclosed on Monday that the suspect was found with a locally fabricated pistol and two live cartridges.
Samaila further revealed that Wunuji allegedly threatened to shoot at operatives during the arrest but was quickly overpowered and disarmed before carrying out the threat.
Preliminary findings, according to the NSCDC, indicate that the suspect may have been working with others to harass residents in the area.
The corps also accused him of mounting an illegal checkpoint where motorists and passersby were reportedly extorted, despite repeated warnings by both community leaders and security agencies.
The command noted that the suspect had made useful statements in custody and would be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.
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Reiterating its resolve to curb criminal activities, the NSCDC urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in maintaining peace across the state.
