Operatives of Delta State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested about 42 suspected criminals for various offences, ranging from pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, kidnapping, child molestation and human trafficking, within the past six months.

The Command’s Public Relations officer, Mr. Emeka Peters Okwechime told The Guardian at the Command’s headquarters in Asaba that achievements were made in fighting criminality, especially in the riverine areas of the state, but with challenges.

Okwechime disclosed that the last six months have been tough for them while they engaged the suspects, which led to the arrest of over 42 suspects for various crimes ranging from dealing in illegal petroleum products, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, kidnapping, human trafficking, child molestation and fraud.”

NSCDC’s image maker said in May, about eight of the suspects were convicted, while scores are being prosecuted for fraud and related offences.

He said: “We have arrested 12 suspects for trafficking. One of them was arrested for baby factory and would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded”.

He explained that the Command’s anti vandalism squad “gave a hot chase to a gang of kidnappers, who disguised as transporters using a bus. They loaded the bus at Uromi junction in Agbor to Warri, but diverted into Abavo bush. Our men chased them and rescued the kidnapped victims unhurt.”

Also, Okwechime said that a locally made boat was intercepted with an unquantified amount of crude oil hidden beneath the boat, saying that the suspects are being trailed.

“In the Udu area, the Command invaded an illegal dump site where illegal diesels were stored in underground tanks. We have confiscated it, and cordoned off the area. Suspects are on the run.

“On herders/farmers clash, the Agro rangers department has since waded into it and has brought peace, stability and sanity to some areas, where herders are giving farmers tough times.