The Abia State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in collaboration with the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, has arrested 12 suspected pipeline vandals in Obiakpo Obuzo Asa, in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State.
The discovery and arrests were achieved through credible intelligence. In line with its mandate and the directives of Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi, NSCDC Abia Command successfully dismantled the syndicate involved in operating illegal refineries in the state.
According to ACS II Maureen Udugwu, they 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 vandalised nearby pipeline.
Additionally, large quantities of petroleum products in various stages of processing were seized during the operation.
While parading the suspects in Ukwa West, SC Jamilu Aliyu announced that 12 suspects were apprehended at the scene of the illegal activity.
According to the command, investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in the criminal enterprise, which poses a serious threat to the nation’s economy.
The Abia State commandant of NSCDC, U.I. Alfadarai, who reaffirmed the commitment of the corps to rooting out criminality in Abia State and beyond, warned all criminal elements operating within the state to desist from illegal activities or face the full wrath of the law.
Alfadarai also called upon the public to collaborate with NSCDC by providing credible intelligence that will help in apprehending criminals.
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