Benue massacre: NSCDC deploys special forces to track killers

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Following the killings in Benue State, the Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has ordered the Zonal Commander and the State Commandant to deploy covert operatives, special forces, and all tactical units across every nook and cranny of the state to apprehend the perpetrators.

The CG made this statement during a scheduled visit to the state for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation alongside other security chiefs.

He also sought collaboration with other stakeholders to enhance well-coordinated operations for a renewed onslaught against the perpetrators.

“These killings must stop, and we must be very strategic, decisive, and resilient in our approach to the restoration of peace and order in the state.

“All hands must be on deck. There must be maximum deployment of all special forces, counter-terrorism units, and intelligence operatives for both covert and overt operations.

“Just as Mr President has directed, the perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to book, and we need to be on top of our game to make this happen,” the CG stated.

Audi assured that the NSCDC high command would deploy additional tactical operatives and logistics to support the Benue Command in boosting its operations for more effective security coverage. He promised to work closely with the military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police, indigenous security apparatus, and critical community stakeholders to gather credible intelligence that would lead to the arrest of those responsible for the dastardly act.

The NSCDC helmsman thanked the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Lornem Alia, for his support to the state command and reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace, order, and safeguarding all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) as well as the people of the state.

In a statement, he decried the mindless killing of defenceless women and children in the recent incident, noting that there was no justification whatsoever for the gruesome murder of innocent citizens.