The operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, have sealed an illegal petroleum refining site in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital. This is even as the corps arrested four suspects in connection to the illegal site.
This was contained in a statement signed by the NSCDC Ebonyi State Command’s spokesperson, ASC Emmanuel Uneke, on Monday.
According to the spokesperson, the discovery was made on Saturday, November 9, 2024, through intelligence-led operation by the command’s Anti-vandal squad. He noted that operatives successfully disrupted an illegal oil refining activities at Ugwuachara in Abakaliki, the state capital.
Uneke gave the names of the suspects as Patrick Peter, Monday David, Aliyu Muhammed, and Oke Jeremiah. He also informed that a tanker truck with 45,000 litres of unrefined petroleum was also discovered at the site.
Uneke added that preliminary investigation revealed the use of fraudulent documentation to disguise the true purpose of the transportation of petroleum to Cross River State. An indication of potential diversion of petrol for illegal activity.
The spokesperson, however, stated that the suspects are cooperating with the Command to unravel the source of the products. Adding that thorough investigation will be conducted. He ensured that all those involved in the illegal activity will be brought to justice.
Uneke noted that the State Commandant, Francis Nnadi, is committed to combating illegal activities in petroleum sector. He, therefore, seeks the public cooperation in combating illegal oil refining and other related crimes.
The Commandant urged the people to always report any suspicious activities to NSCDC or other law enforcement agencies.
source: Channels TV
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