“They will work alongside conventional security agencies and community watch groups,” the governor said.
The victims were rescued in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Mr Bako said the deployment of forest guards aimed to strengthen surveillance and protection of forest reserves and stock routes across the state.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has charged newly trained forest guards to relate professionally with the public and shun all forms of intimidation and harassment.
The state police spokesperson stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court upon completion of investigation.
The commissioner said those recruited would serve under the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) in Ebonyi.
“We intend to employ 1,500 youths into Niger forest guards so that we can take over the forests,” said Mr Bago.
Senator Utazi was reacting to an attack on Opanda-Nimbo farmers in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of the state.
