The Anambra State Government has confirmed the arrest of security operatives who brutalised and stripped a female National Youth Service Corps member, Jennifer Elobor, during a raid in the state.
The incident, which was captured in a viral video, showed armed men storming a corps members’ lodge and accusing them of being internet fraudsters, despite presenting their NYSC identification cards and uniforms. Elobor was seen crying for help as her clothes were torn while she was beaten.
The video triggered outrage across social media, with Nigerians demanding justice and condemning the actions of the vigilante group involved.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, described the assault as unacceptable and confirmed that those responsible had been arrested and placed under investigation.
“The operatives were on the trail of some suspected cultists riding on motorcycles when they pursued them into a compound. In the process of searching the houses in line with their mandate, the unfortunate incident involving the corps member occurred. While they were acting within the law, their conduct in that instance was unacceptable,” Emeakayi explained.
He added that the government acted swiftly to address the matter. “Immediately the incident happened, we arrested the operatives involved and placed them in detention. Our practice is to first carry out preliminary investigations, bring in the victims and complainants, and then determine whether the matter warrants internal disciplinary action or prosecution,” he said.
Emeakayi disclosed that the victim and NYSC officials had been invited to his office where he personally listened to their account.
“Our conclusion is that while the operatives were on a legitimate assignment, the manner in which they acted was not acceptable. We have made that very clear, and disciplinary measures are being taken,” he stated.
He also clarified that the operation was part of a joint security task force under Operation Udo Gatchi, involving the police, army, Department of State Services, civil defence, and the state’s security outfit, Agbunechemba.
According to him, Governor Soludo’s administration will not condone any abuse of power by security operatives, especially against innocent citizens.
