NSCDC seals off 15 illegal private security companies in Lagos State

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, says it has shut down 15 illegal private security outfits in the state.

The state commandant, Mr Gabriel Abafi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos that the companies were closed down for either operating with expired licences or for failing to register with the government.

“We have closed down 15 private security outfits in the state.

“Some of them are operating with expired licences, while others did not register their companies,’’ he said.

He warned private security organisations operating in the state to renew their licences without delay.

“The corps has the statutory mandate to inspect and register private security guards’ companies to ensure that they operate legally.

“The NSCDC is also mandated to protect critical infrastructure, national assets, and registration of private guards’ companies and protection of civil populace.

“Any private security company operating illegally will be shut down.’’

Abafi said the corps would not relent in its effort in checking the activities of illegal private security guards.

According to him, the corps is tackling the activities of pipeline vandals in the state.

“We have also made some progress in disaster management, peace and conflict resolutions, security surveillance and intelligence gathering.’’