The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has made a noteworthy development with the arrest of two cult members who are reportedly involved in the infamous ‘one chance’ operation in Imo state. Mr. Matthew Ovye, the NSCDC commander in Imo, announced the development while parading the suspects in Owerri on Wednesday, putting light on the Command’s efforts to tackle criminal activity in the region.
According to Ovye, the NSCDC’s Rapid Response Squad intercepted the suspects along Okigwe road, Owerri, as they attempted to forcefully deprive a second-year student of Imo State University of her belongings. Employing charms to subdue their unsuspecting victim, the suspects succeeded in robbing her before the timely intervention of NSCDC personnel.
Describing the modus operandi of the culprits, Ovye explained, “They are locally known as ‘One Chance People,’ employing mini buses to masquerade as regular commuters while perpetrating their nefarious activities.” He further revealed the recovery of charms from the suspects, underscoring the seriousness of the offenses committed.
“We are currently conducting a thorough investigation, and these individuals will be prosecuted accordingly. Their actions undermine government efforts and exacerbate insecurity,” Ovye emphasized, reiterating the NSCDC’s commitment to maintaining law and order in Imo state.
Addressing the public, Ovye urged citizens to exercise caution when boarding public transportation and promptly report suspicious individuals to the authorities. He assured the community that the NSCDC, in collaboration with other security agencies, is actively engaged in intelligence sharing to thwart criminal activities and safeguard public safety.
The victim, a 20-year-old student identified as Neme, recounted her harrowing experience, recalling how she narrowly escaped victimization. “I was on my way to school around 8.00 a.m. when a minibus stopped in front of me, and two men approached,” she recounted. “They demanded my bangle, claiming it symbolized their cult group, but I managed to make a call, prompting them to flee.”