On Monday, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Port Harcourt received 11 artisans from the Nigerian Navy.
It was believed that the craftsmen intended to construct an illicit refinery in one of Rivers State’s waterways.
According to Cdr. Sa’id Kabir, Base Operations Officer of Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder Port Harcourt, the craftsmen were apprehended while on patrol in Krakrama Waterways, where the Navy was combating illicit oil bunkering.
This Is The Month Port Harcourt Refinery Will Begin Operations – FG Reveals
He claimed that on January 23, a boat carrying eleven persons and a variety of items was intercepted by the Navy’s Tactical Response and Assault Squadron. Ten metal plates, fourteen angle irons and twenty gas cylinders that were concealed within the boat made up the ingredients.
“Investigation revealed that the suspects were conveying the materials to Bille, a riverine community, with the intent to construct an illegal refinery.
“It was also discovered that the suspects specialise in the construction of illegal refineries and were contracted by one Mr John,” Kabir said.
He issued a warning to oil thieves, saying that the Navy was going to stop them and take them to court. He added that the Navy was aware of certain criminals’ attempts to damage the security agency’s reputation in order to support their illegal activities.
FG Commence Payment Of N30,000 Grants To Artisans
“The base will not be deterred by the antics of enemies of the nation in the discharge of its constitutional duties.
“We assure the people of Rivers of our readiness to facilitate a peaceful and secure environment for the conduct of legitimate business activities.
“To this end, NNS Pathfinder requests the support of members of the public to provide us with useful information on suspicious criminal activities in their communities,’’ he said,” he said.
Upon receiving the 11 suspects and the materials, Mr. Monday Lawal of the NSCDC Command in Rivers announced that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted and the findings would be made public.
In addition, he stated that if the suspects were found guilty of the charges against them, they would go on trial.
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.