Get registered, NSCDC directs private security outfits

By Abiodun OBA

All unregistered Private Guard security outfits in Rivers state have been directed to register or face the full wrath of the law.

The Rivers State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Basil Igwebueze gave the directive while addressing journalists at the Command headquarters.

Igwebueze said upon his taking charge as the 14th substantive State Commandant of the State Command, his zest to fight against the proliferation of security outfits and the menace of illegal oil bunkering activities which have mostly led to environmental degradation, pollution of land, aquatic life and health hazards cannot be overemphasized.

The commandant, who declared his mission to the state, noted that the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar deployed him to Rivers State to prosecute the mandate of Safeguarding all Critical National Assets and Infrastructures and ensuring that Operators of Unregistered Private Guard Companies do proper registration or risk being shut down.

“I assumed duty as the state commandant of NSCDC Rivers State command on 19 of June and I commenced work in earnest.

“In the course of my duty so far, in the prosecution of the corps mandate of combating pipeline vandalism and all other aspects that threaten critical national assets of the country, the corps in Rivers state command has made progress,” he stated.

The Commandant also warned economic saboteurs to either desist from such a heinous act or face the full wrath of the law adding that the fight against illegal oil bunkering activities in State is not negotiable.

He further warned the Antivandal Marine Personnel to desist from any action that could smear the image of the NSCDC, noting that the Commandant General is always ready to motivate and reward diligent and dedicated officers.

He said: “Any personnel caught in aiding and abating thieves or illegalities in the water will be dealt with extant regulations and law.

“The command will continue to synergize with relevant sister agencies to combat oil theft in Rivers State particularly.”

Igwebueze, however, solicited more credible Intelligence from the Public that would lead to the arrests of unrepentant Vandals and oil thieves in the State.