The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has disclosed that its operatives played a key role in assisting the Nigeria Police Force to apprehend armed robbery suspects responsible for the killing of an Arise News staff member, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, during a robbery attack in Abuja.
The Assistant Commander General, North Central Zonal Command of NFSS, Abdulhakeem Ibrahim, revealed this while briefing journalists on Saturday. He said the operation, carried out in collaboration with the police, led to the arrest of five suspects who had been terrorising Zuba and its environs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to Ibrahim, the arrests followed two consecutive attacks by the gang on a popular hotel in Zuba.
“The suspects struck twice before NFSS operatives, acting on police directives, mounted a checkpoint near the hotel to intercept them. When the gang returned, they ran into the checkpoint and fled after a brief chase, abandoning their driver, who was later apprehended and handed over to the police,” he explained.
He added that further investigations led to the arrest of additional suspects and the recovery of dangerous weapons from their hideout, including an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, and a Beretta pistol.
Ibrahim commended the strong collaboration between the NFSS and the police, describing the partnership as essential for community safety and intelligence gathering.
“The police cannot do without us, and we cannot do without the police. That is how we work,” he said.
He appealed to the federal government to grant the NFSS legal recognition and adequate support to enable the organisation to perform its duties more effectively.
Ibrahim also praised the Nigerian Army, police, and other security agencies for their cooperation in joint operations across the North Central region.
“Our operatives are risking their lives to assist formal security agencies. We are asking for support to continue doing our job,” he added.
He further appreciated the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for acknowledging the contributions of NFSS in tackling insecurity nationwide.
Ibrahim also lauded the Commander-General of NFSS, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, and the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), Dr. John Metchie, for their leadership and support.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Forest Security Service to continue working closely with other security agencies to combat crime and ensure peace and safety across the country.