Off-cycle poll: Security operatives foil plot to ‘abduct INEC officials’ in Imo

Security operatives in Imo reportedly foiled an attempt by thugs to abduct officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and cart away election materials.

NAN reports that the incident took place at a registration centre in Amaimo, Ikeduru LGA of Imo.

The news agency quoted an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity, as saying that armed security operatives shot into the air from a distance, when voters in the area alerted of the presence of the thugs.

“The thugs quickly retreated into their bus and sped off on hearing the sound of the gun,” the eyewitness said.

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) operatives at the scene who also pleaded anonymity, said the thugs were on a mission to hijack INEC officials and voting materials.

“The thugs were coming to hijack the INEC officials and election materials,” the security personnel said.

“But luck ran out on them when some people started shouting during a stampede caused by fear.

“It was their shouting that alerted the armed security personnel, who quickly shot into the air, forcing the thugs to take to their heels.”