The Anambra State Government has dismissed eight operatives of the Agunechemba Security outfit for allegedly assaulting and stripping a female corps member, Miss Jennifer Elobor.
Mr. Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Gov. Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, announced the dismissal at the agency’s headquarters in Awka on Wednesday.
Emeakayi said the operatives, who claimed to be chasing suspected cultists on Tuesday, went outside their mandate by attacking the corps member.
“The Soludo administration will not tolerate any form of unprofessionalism, brutality or abuse of office by security operatives. Any officer found guilty of misconduct will face immediate dismissal and prosecution,” he said.
He added that the dismissed officers would be handed over to the police for prosecution.
The adviser also confirmed that the state government had paid the victim’s medical bills, replaced her damaged valuables including a laptop and phone, and tendered a public apology to her family, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and members of the public.
Emeakayi said despite appeals for a quiet settlement, government insisted on a full investigation and accountability to serve as a deterrent.
“This incident will serve as a turning point in reforming the outfit aose restoring public confidence in community security operations. This government is committed to professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights in all security engagements,” he said.
