CRUDE OIL THEFT: ABIA NSCDC ARRESTS TWO SUSPECTS, IMPOUNDS 55 BAGS OF CRUDE OIL, CONDUIT HOSE, OTHERS

The Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Abia State Command, Umuahia at about 0100hrs on Sunday, 21st April, 2024 arrested two suspects for their alleged involvement in vandalism of petroleum pipelines, crude oil theft and other illegal dealings in petroleum products.

Parading the suspects before Press men at the Command Headquarters in Umuahia on Wednesday, 24th April, 2024, , the State Commandant – CC Usman Ishaq Alfadarai fdc MNIM MFR said the suspects were arrested at Shell Well Head 26 Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State following an actionable intelligence.

Narrating further on how the suspects were apprehended, Commandant Alfadarai said ” the arrest was made possible through a joint operation involving the NSCDC, DSS and Shell internal security operatives. The successful arrest of the suspects who have been on the Abia NSCDC wanted list is considered a major breakthrough in our unreserved commitment to win the war against oil pipeline vandalism, Crude Oil theft and all forms of illegal dealings in petroleum products. The joint operation itself is a reflection of the healthy synergy existing among the security agencies in the State.”

The suspects upon interrogation gave their names as:

1. Samson Koki (M) (25yrs) from Okoloba, Delta State
2. Zakari Yakubu (M) (18yrs)

Items recovered from the suspect’s include one long blue hose used in siphoning petroleum products from the pipelines and about fifty five (55) numbers of cellophane packs containing products suspected to be crude oil.

The State Commandant praised the gallantry and professionalism displayed by his Men in the successful coordination of the arrest which he said is in line with the directives of the Commandant General – CG Ahmed Abububakar Audi PhD mni OFR to sustain the onslaught against vandals and other economic saboteurs operating across the country.

He however seized the opportunity to thank the general public for their confidence in the Corps as being demonstrated in providing timely information while assuring that every information received will not only be given prompt attention but will also be treated with utmost confidentiality.

He called on those engaging in vandalism of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, illegal dealings in petroleum products and other criminal activities to turn a new leaf or be prepared to face the consequences of their act.

CSC Ndukwe Agu Egwu
Head, Public Relations Unit
For: The State Commandant.