The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested seven individuals linked to illegal petroleum activities and confiscated a barge along with three boats carrying Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
State Commandant Joachim Okafor, speaking to journalists at the crime scene near Woji Jetty in Port Harcourt’s Slaughter area, emphasized the NSCDC’s commitment to tackling economic sabotage. This includes combating pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkering, and the transportation of illicitly refined products.
Okafor disclosed that two of the suspects were apprehended while attempting to transfer AGO from a barge into cellophane bags, presumably for further transportation to an undisclosed location.
In addition, the Marine Squad detained five more suspects at the Tombia-Iwofe axis. Preliminary reports suggest they were found with three boats loaded with unquantified litres of AGO.
NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, Olufemi Ayodele, stated that the command’s intensified crackdown on crude oil theft is aimed at curbing illegal bunkering along the coast and enhancing the nation’s oil production.
Ayodele assured that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted to identify those responsible for these illicit activities, and the suspects will face trial in a competent court of law.
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