Police Dismantle Illegal Security Outfit, Arrest Five in Rivers -

Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have uncovered and shut down an illegal security outfit operating under the name “Civilian Joint Taskforce” in Tai Local Government Area of the state, leading to the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of locally fabricated firearms.

The operation, carried out in Sakpenwa on May 6, 2026, followed credible intelligence gathered by the State Intelligence Department. According to the police, the group had been operating unlawfully under the guise of providing security services.

Those arrested include three women and two men from different parts of Rivers, Bayelsa, and Jigawa states. During the raid, officers recovered three locally made pump-action rifles believed to have been in the possession of the suspects.

The police clarified that the so-called “Civilian Joint Taskforce” is not a recognized or authorized security body under the Nigeria Police Force or any government agency.

Authorities emphasized that civilians are prohibited from bearing arms or running security operations without proper legal authorization.

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The crackdown is part of a broader nationwide directive by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at curbing illegal arms proliferation and dismantling criminal networks.

The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and ensuring public safety.

He warned individuals and groups engaging in unlawful activities to desist or face strict legal consequences.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the group’s operations and to identify any additional accomplices or related illegal networks.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and support law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.