Advocate.ng Latest news update on politics, entertainment, sport and more
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abia State command, has declared its unwavering commitment to combating oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the state.
This stance was reiterated by the state’s commandant, Usman Alfadarai, during the recent parade of two suspected oil thieves and pipeline vandals at the command’s headquarters in Umuahia.
The arrests were made possible through a joint operation involving the NSCDC, the Department of State Security, and Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria’s internal security.
The suspects were apprehended at Shell Well Head 26, Owaza in Ukwa West local government on Sunday, April 22, 2024, following actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from the suspects included a long blue hose and 55 transparent cellophane packs containing products suspected to be crude oil.
Commandant Usman Alfadarai emphasized the importance of the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing war against oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
He attributed the success to the strong synergy and collaboration among security agencies in the state.
Additionally, a sample of the seized product has been sent for laboratory testing to confirm its nature.
The suspects, Samson Koki and Zakari Yakubu, both claimed to be unaware of the gravity of their offenses.
Koki, a 25-year-old generator mechanic from Delta State, and Zakari, an 18-year-old scrap dealer from Nasarawa State, stated that they were engaged by one Baba Alhaji, a northerner.
The NSCDC Abia State command has issued a stern warning to criminals in the state, urging them to desist from their nefarious activities or face the consequences from the command and other security agencies.
The command has also called on residents to remain vigilant and provide useful information to security operatives to aid in the arrest of suspected criminals.
This development comes as part of the broader efforts by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, under the watch of Commandant General Ahmed Audi, to protect critical national assets and infrastructure across the country.
The unwavering commitment to the war against oil theft and pipeline vandalism in Abia State is a testament to the effectiveness of the NSCDC’s strategies and the importance of collaboration among security agencies in Nigeria.
Subscribe to the Advocate News letter and receive news updates daily in your inbox.
