NSCDC Takes Down Illegal Oil Bunkering Operation in Abia
In a significant crackdown on illegal oil bunkering activities, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has successfully dismantled an illicit operation and confiscated two local Cotonou boats containing 9,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in the vicinity of Inhandu Community, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
The commendable achievement was accomplished by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad following actionable intelligence indicating ongoing illegal loading and transportation of AGO disguised in cellophane bags at the Inhandu/Ikwariator waterside in Ukwa East.
According to Babawale Afolabi, the National Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, the operation unfolded swiftly as the team swiftly moved in and encountered two sizable wooden Cotonou boats docked along the riverbank, loaded with AGO concealed in cellophane bags and stored in fibre boats. The perpetrators, upon spotting the NSCDC operatives, fled the scene in haste.
Afolabi highlighted that the illegal refining of petroleum products had persisted at the bunkering site until the intervention of NSCDC operatives brought it to light. During the site sweep, bags of AGO were discovered stashed in an unfinished building, while others were found loaded into three different vehicles, evidently prepared for distribution.
Among the seized items were two fibre boats outfitted with 40-horsepower Yamaha engines, two empty J5 Buses, a Sequoia Jeep in the process of being loaded, two large wooden boats in varying stages of construction, and quantities of AGO concealed within cellophane bags.
The NSCDC further revealed that its Intelligence and Investigation Department had launched a comprehensive inquiry to identify and apprehend the perpetrators and beneficiaries of the illegal operation. Legal action, including seeking forfeiture of the seized products and conveyance, will be pursued through the appropriate channels upon the conclusion of the investigation.
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In urging public cooperation, the NSCDC emphasized the critical role of collective effort in combating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s economy from the activities of saboteurs.
This successful operation underscores the NSCDC’s unwavering commitment to upholding law and order and protecting vital national resources from exploitation by criminal elements.
Source: NSCDC
