…arrest 12 suspected pipeline vandals
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Abia State Command, in collaboration with the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS), has arrested 12 suspected pipeline vandals in Obiakpo Obuzo, Asa in Ukwa West LGA, Abia State.
The arrest of the suspects was made possible due to credible intelligence.
The NSCDC said: “Following credible intelligence, NSCDC Abia Command, in line with its mandate and the directives of the Commandant General, Associate Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, successfully dismantled a syndicate involved in operating illegal refineries in the state.”
The Nation reports that the raid conducted by CG’s SIS uncovered a vast network of illegal refineries cleverly hidden in the forest of Obiakpo Obuzo Asa community, with large quantities of crude oil suspected to be tapped from a vandalized nearby pipeline.
In addition, large quantities of petroleum products in various stages of processing were seized during the operation.
The 12 suspects were apprehended at the scene of the illegal activity.
It was gathered that further investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in this criminal enterprise, which poses a serious threat to the nation’s economy.
The state commandant, NSCDC Usman Alfadarai, however, reaffirmed the commitment of the corps to rooting out criminal elements from Abia state and beyond.
He warned all criminal elements operating within the state to desist from illegal activities or face the full wrath of the law.
The Commandant also called upon the public to collaborate with NSCDC by providing credible intelligence that will help in apprehending criminals.