Zamfara Court Orders Arrest Of Two NSCDC Operatives Over Alleged Burglary

A Magistrate Court in Gusau, Zamfara State, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of two operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) for repeatedly failing to appear in court.

Presiding over the case, Senior Magistrate Malam Aminu Sani granted the request by the plaintiff’s counsel, Surajo Garba Gusau, who argued that the physical presence of the accused NSCDC operatives was crucial for the legal proceedings to continue without disruption.

The two operatives are among five individuals charged with alleged burglary and theft of property belonging to the plaintiff, Yusha’u Aliyu. The accused had reportedly been absent from multiple court sessions, prompting the magistrate to issue the arrest order.

During the hearing, the plaintiff’s counsel opposed a motion by the defence counsel seeking to dismiss the case. The defence had argued that the accused, being civil servants under the state government, should be shielded from prosecution.

In response, Gusau clarified that constitutional immunity is limited to specific public office holders, such as the President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors, as provided under Section 308 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). He challenged the defence to cite any legal provision granting immunity to the accused.

The case stems from allegations that senior officials of the Zamfara Urban and Regional Planning (ZUREP) and two NSCDC operatives were involved in the burglary and theft of the plaintiff’s shop.

The court adjourned the case to January 15, 2024, for a ruling on the arguments presented by both parties. Meanwhile, the arrest warrant ensures that the absconding operatives will be compelled to appear in court.

This development highlights the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring accountability, regardless of the defendants’ official positions.