The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has successfully dismantled an illegal oil dump site and seized a truck carrying adulterated petroleum products in Igbo-Etche, located within Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.
During a press briefing, Joachin Okafor, the newly appointed Commandant of the Rivers State Command, confirmed the operation, which uncovered over 70 tanks filled with crude oil at an abandoned construction site in the area.
Okafor emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence gathering among officers to effectively combat vandals and illegal oil bunkers in the state. He asserted that Rivers State will no longer serve as a sanctuary for individuals involved in the theft and illegal refining of petroleum products, pledging a firm stance against such illicit activities.
He stated, “The nation is facing significant loss, with our economy being undermined due to the ruthless actions of crude oil thieves, which also lead to environmental degradation.” Under his leadership, the Rivers NSCDC is committed to a zero-tolerance approach toward pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering.
In addition to the illegal dump site, authorities also confiscated seven drums of Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) and a truck loaded with suspected adulterated petroleum products in the Obioakpor Local Government Area and Elelenwo, respectively.
Okafor encouraged those engaged in illegal activities to either relocate or pursue lawful businesses, asserting, “We are resolute in our fight against these crimes, collaborating with government entities, security agencies, community youth, and traditional leaders to ensure a unified front.”
He assured that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted, leading to legal proceedings that will determine the fate of the suspects and the confiscated products.
In closing, Okafor expressed gratitude to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his ongoing support and requested additional operational resources, particularly as local government elections approach. He reiterated that under the guidance of the Commandant General, the Corps would relentlessly protect the critical national assets within the state.
