RIVERS NSCDC UNCOVERS RESIDENTIAL BUILDING USED FOR STORAGE OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS
The Anti-vandal Squad of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Rivers State Command has uncovered a residential building that doubles as a dump site for the storage of locally/ illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
While addressing the newsmen at the scene of the crime the Rivers State Commandant Abu Tambuwal FCAI, who was represented by the Head of Anti-vandal Squad DCC Joachin Okafor said following a sustained intelligence that a particular building a along a notable University in Port Harcourt is being used as loading point of illegally refined AGO; the surveillance team of the Anti-vandal Squad swung into action to effect the arrest of those carrying out the act which amounts to economic sabotage.
” Based on sustained intelligence the Surveillance team of the Antivandal Squad laid ambush for 3days to monitor the events around the area; In consonance with the provisions of Section 3 (l) (ii) of the NSCDC ACT 2003 as amended 2007; I eventually ordered my men to advance into the compound and we later confirmed that the ash colour bungalow building located at Iwofe Rumuolumeni, Obio Akpor Local Government Area, is being used as a loading point of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil stored in cellophane bags. In addition, we saw a black Lexus 330 saloon Car with number plate Bayelsa GBB 52EA, a Toyota Avalon Gold colour Car with registration number Rivers FH 730 PHC laden with some cellophane bags of illegally refined AGO, a Boat Engine and several bags of AGO stored in cellophane bags scattered within the premises
” Let me use this opportunity to reiterate to the general public that the NSCDC Rivers State Command will not relent in the fight against oil theft, illegal oil bunkering and all acts of economic sabotage in the State. If this unscrupulous act was not uncovered it could have led into fire outbreak and the continuous operation of illegal refineries in the area would definitely lead to environmental degradation and pollution of the environment which is hazardous to the health of the good people of Rivers State”.
The Command will carry out detailed investigation as no one highly placed or not would be exonerated if found culpable especially as the perpetrators are currently at large. The residential building has been sealed and our operatives have cordon off the area.
We have also identified a local jetty nearby the scene of the crime where illegally refined AGO is being loaded for onward transmission to would be buyers.
The Command will approach the Court with the requisite jurisdiction to make necessary application for the forfeiture of the petroleum products, modes of conveyance and the residential apartment as this unscrupulous act contravenes the provisions of the Miscellaneous offences act 2004, laws of the federation.
SIGNED:
DSC OLUFEMI AYODELE Anipr.
PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
NSCDC RIVERS STATE COMMAND.
