Navy apprehends six individuals suspected of engaging in crude oil theft in Anambra
The Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is determined to eradicate the issues of crude oil theft, illegal transactions involving petroleum products, and oil pipeline vandalism. The Commandant, Edwin Osuala, affirmed this commitment in Awka on Tuesday, following the apprehension of six suspects by the Nigerian Navy, Onitsha Outpost.
The suspects have been transferred to the NSCDC command for additional investigation and prosecution in court. This information was conveyed in a press statement released by the state Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, Okadigbo Edwin, on Tuesday.
The press release stated, "On the 3rd of November 2023, around 06:00hrs, Ugwu Donatus (57), Chukwudi Eke (52), and Nwabueze Daniel (30) were apprehended on Atani Road, Odekpe Community in Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State. They were in possession of 70 sack bags containing approximately 3,500 liters of suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil, being transported in a white Nissan vehicle with registration number Enugu ENU 391 XX.
"Likewise, on November 7, 2023, at about 13:00hrs, Chinedu Okafor (32), Abu Galaddima (42), and Rishamah Abbass (29) were arrested within Odekpe Community in Ogbaru LGA. They were driving two white J5 Vans with registration numbers Anambra XA 929 ZBL and Anambra AWK 776 YZ, loaded with 100 sack bags of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, estimated to be about 5,000 liters."
Osuala further revealed that initial investigations indicated that the products, loaded at Osssamala Community in Ogbaru LGA, were destined for Upper Iweka before reaching their final destination.
He also clarified that Emeka Emeka, who is accused of being the owner of the products, is presently evading capture. Continuous surveillance measures are being implemented to apprehend him.
The head of the NSCDC command mentioned that all detained individuals are providing valuable information to aid the command in capturing their collaborators.
He expressed appreciation for the Navy's efforts in the arrests, emphasizing the fruitful collaboration between the NSCDC and the Navy in combating economic crimes in the country.
He stated, "I commend the Nigerian Navy for supporting the Corps, the lead agency in safeguarding critical national assets and eliminating illicit activities involving petroleum products. Following the successful transfer of these suspects and exhibits to us, we will promptly initiate a thorough investigation."
"We assure the Navy and the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted on the suspects and any other individuals implicated in the case, with potential prosecution.
The transfer of the suspects and evidence to the NSCDC signifies the unity of security agencies in Anambra State in the fight against crime. This collaborative effort is crucial for launching a comprehensive campaign against those responsible for this reprehensible act.
I strongly advise these economic saboteurs to stay away from Anambra State. Our operational measures cover every corner of the state, making it inhospitable for their activities. They should consider engaging in legitimate businesses or embracing a new path."
At the same time, he cautioned individuals involved in oil theft, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other criminal activities to leave the state, emphasizing that there is no refuge for them within or around the state.
He encouraged the public to stay alert and furnish the Command with reliable information to aid in suppressing the activities of criminals and economic saboteurs.
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