The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says 66 officers drawn from its nationwide formations have been sanctioned for various offences.

NSCDC commandant-general Ahmed Audi disclosed this during an interview on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Audi said the offences ranged from dismissal and compulsory retirement to demotion and warnings.

He said the disciplinary actions followed approval by the Civil Defence, Correction, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) after investigations into allegations of misconduct against the affected personnel.

Mr Audi revealed that the sanctions were imposed based on the nature and severity of the offences committed. He said some of the offences involved arms dealing, adding that officers found culpable of particularly serious offences would face prosecution.

The NSCDC boss said all affected personnel had undergone established disciplinary procedures, including orderly room trials and relevant staff disciplinary committees, before the board approved the sanctions.

According to Mr Audi, the affected officers were drawn from state commands, zonal commands, area commands, the national headquarters and other formations across the country.

Mr Audi reiterated that the NSCDC will not tolerate indiscipline or actions that undermine its professional standards. He said the exercise was intended to reinforce discipline within the corps and deter other personnel from violating its rules and regulations.

Meanwhile, Mr Audi disclosed that about 17,000 NSCDC personnel had recently been promoted, describing the exercise as a morale booster for deserving officers and men.

Mr Audi explained that approximately 22,000 operatives sat the promotion examination, while about 17,000 qualified for promotion based on their performance and available vacancies approved by the federal government.

(NAN)