The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 10 individuals suspected of engaging in pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and unauthorized transactions involving petroleum products.
The Command also confiscated nine vehicles carrying illicitly refined petroleum products hidden in cellophane bags and seized 28,225 liters of unlawfully processed AGO, commonly known as diesel.
Among the ten suspects is Chinedu Michael, a repeat offender who had been previously released on bail two months ago following his earlier arrest by the Corps for involvement in the illegal refining of petroleum products.
While displaying the suspects at the Command Headquarters in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, State Commandant Basil Igwebueze pointed out that the individuals were captured in different areas throughout the state through the joint efforts of the Anti-vandal Unit and the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army.
Commandant Igwebueze stated that the suspects will face legal charges, and both the products and vehicles will be confiscated, with the proceeds directed to the federal government.
He emphasized that the Command remains steadfast in its mission to protect vital national assets and infrastructure. He also called for a review of laws about crude oil theft to enforce stricter penalties.