The Abia State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has successfully apprehended five individuals suspected of engaging in oil vandalism in Obiakpu Asa, Ukwa West Local Government Area of the state. Additionally, the Command seized six vehicles believed to have been used by the suspects in their illegal bunkering activities.
The new Abia State Commandant of NSCDC, Mr. Usman Ishaq Alfadarai, revealed that the arrests were made through credible intelligence gathering. He explained that two of the suspects had initially fled during an interrogation along the Enugu/Port Harcourt expressway while transporting quantities of crude oil in a Toyota Camry car. However, these individuals later provided information leading the NSCDC to the forest where the illicit activities were taking place.
Commandant Alfadarai emphasized the commitment of NSCDC to keeping illegal refinery operators at bay, characterizing their actions as economic sabotage that could jeopardize the Federal Government’s food security program. He called upon traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to collaborate with security agencies by providing credible information to enhance their operations. The Commandant reiterated the determination of the NSCDC’s General Commandant to address any individual involved in oil bunkering activities.
The NSCDC disclosed that investigations are underway to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the illegal oil business.”