NSCDC in Rivers uncovers new method of smuggling oil
The Rivers State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) has revealed a new method used by crude oil thieves to smuggle illegally refined petroleum products to neighbouring states.
Joachim Okafor, the NSCDC Commandant in Rivers State, made the announcement while addressing journalists at the Command Head Office in Port Harcourt.
He disclosed that oil thieves have now adopted the use of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to transport illegally refined petroleum products, especially to evade detection by the vigilant officers of the Corps.
During a routine patrol, the Anti-Vandal Unit of the NSCDC intercepted three SUVs loaded with unquantified quantities of adulterated gasoline oil, commonly known as AGO or diesel, in two border local government areas of Rivers State.
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Okafor detailed that on one occasion, while on patrol at the Etche borders in the Etche Local Government Area, the Anti-Vandal Unit came across a Toyota Sequoia SUV fully loaded with AGO, which the suspected oil thieves had abandoned upon noticing the patrol team. The suspects fled into a nearby bush, leaving behind the vehicle filled with the illicit petroleum product.
The NSCDC also encountered a similar situation at Umungu community in Omuma Local Government Area. There, two Sequoia Jeeps loaded with adulterated oil were abandoned by the fleeing oil thieves, who escaped into the nearby forest to avoid arrest.
Commandant Okafor assured that the suspects, who are currently on the run, will soon be apprehended. He also emphasized that the seized vehicles and the petroleum products would be forfeited to the Federal Government as part of the efforts to curb oil theft in the country.
In his statement, Okafor also stressed that the NSCDC, with support from citizens, will not relent in its mission to secure critical national assets, such as pipelines, against vandals and oil thieves. He described these criminals as enemies of the country and urged them to seek lawful means of livelihood.
He further warned that anyone arrested for such illegal activities would face severe consequences.
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