NSCDC arrest suspected oil thieves in Akwa Ibom

Seven suspected oil thieves have been arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

The suspects were caught in possession of over 200 drums of adulterated crude worth over N10m.

The state Commandant of the NSCDC, Stephen Lar, said on Wednesday that his men found out the channel was being used in taking illegal bunkering product into the town.

“We were able to recover 200 drums of adulterated crude and we arrested seven suspects. Some of the suspects escaped and we are trailing them,” he said.

“Cross River State has no pipeline, but it is a route for oil thieves. When they have gone to other places to carry out illegal activities, they pass through Cross River.”

Lar said the act portended a serious danger to the country’s economy, expressing dissatisfaction with individuals who created artificial refinery to refine the adulterated product.

“This type of product causes a lot of damage to our vehicles and engines. We must continue to monitor this route in order to prevent all forms of illegality.

“We shall not relent in our effort in making sure that criminality on the maritime sector is stopped. We are also working with the Nigerian Navy to ensure a safer maritime domain,” he added.

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Six other suspects dealing in oil bunkering were arrested by operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship Jubilee, in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State.

NNS Jubilee Executive Officer, Captain Suleiman Ibrahim, said three fully loaded trucks with illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil and five storage tanks were recovered.

One of the suspects, Eyakeno Isaac, said he was a mason before he was introduced to the business by his friend. Isaac said he was involved in the illegal business because he had not been receiving jobs and wanted to survive.

The suspects were handed over to the NSCDC, Akwa Ibom State command, and will be prosecuted after investigation.