Alleged Banditry: NSCDC vows to prosecute arrested officer

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Zamfara State Command has pledged to discipline, dismiss, and prosecute one of its officers, Maikano Sarkin-Tasha, who was arrested by the police for allegedly supplying ammunition and drugs to bandits in the state.

ASC II Sarkin-Tasha was apprehended and paraded by the police for allegedly providing ammunition and hard drugs to bandits operating in the Mada district of Gusau Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

Addressing the media at the command headquarters in Gusau, State Commandant Sani Mustapha condemned the officer’s actions, describing them as barbaric. “We condemn this act in all its forms, as our command is known for integrity, discipline, and ethical service delivery,” Mustapha stated.

He emphasized that the command maintains zero tolerance for indiscipline, corruption, and criminal activities, stressing that the Corps regularly enforces its Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to prevent misconduct.

“The officer’s actions reflect his own personal failings and do not represent the values, character, or standards of the Zamfara Command or the Corps nationwide,” the commandant clarified.

Mustapha further revealed that Sarkin-Tasha had previously been reported for absenteeism and truancy. His whereabouts had been unknown until his recent arrest by the police.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the officer was arrested at a checkpoint between Damba and Sabon Gida while traveling to his hometown, Mada. Police reportedly found cannabis and other drugs in his possession, along with three G3 rifle armors and an anti-aircraft rifle armor recovered from his residence.

The Commandant confirmed that he is in communication with the Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dalijan, to ensure a thorough investigation, disciplinary action, and prosecution of the officer. He vowed that Sarkin-Tasha would face the full weight of the law.

Mustapha reiterated the Corps’ commitment to working with other security agencies to combat crime and criminality, emphasizing that no officer, regardless of rank or connections, would be spared from disciplinary action if found guilty of misconduct.

“While this incident is regrettable, we remain focused on upholding the Corps’ values of good character, discipline, and professionalism. We will continue to protect critical national assets and safeguard the lives and property of citizens with the highest level of integrity and transparency,” he concluded.