NSCDC nabs 306 suspects, seizes 31 trucks in Rivers

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State Command, yesterday, said it arrested 306 suspects and seized 31 trucks laden with suspected petroleum products in the state in 2019. The state commandant, Muktar Lawal, told journalists in Port Harcourt on Tuesday that the suspects were arrested in several sting operations carried out by […]

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State Command, yesterday, said it arrested 306 suspects and seized 31 trucks laden with suspected petroleum products in the state in 2019.

The state commandant, Muktar Lawal, told journalists in Port Harcourt on Tuesday that the suspects were arrested in several sting operations carried out by men of the command for offences ranging from illegal oil bunkering to diversion of petroleum products.

He said the trucks seized were loaded with stolen petroleum products while one tug boat, one vessel, two barges and 15 vehicles conveying petroleum products were also impounded.

He said the command also secured 80 convictions within the period under review.

“The impact of the corps in the state has opened more operational doors for the operatives to perform their statutory mandate within and around Rivers State.

“In the bid to checkmate the excesses of oil theft in the state, the corps arrested a total of 306 suspects this year, with 31 trucks and 15 vehicles all loaded with suspected stolen petroleum products,” Lawal said.

The commandant also said the inauguration of the Agro Allied Rangers Team by the command went a long way in helping to resolve the herdsmen and farmers clashes in the state, adding that the feat was achieved as a result of the enlightenment campaigns embarked upon by the corps among the herders and the host communities on the need for peaceful coexistence.

He said the command has deployed 4,000 personnel to provide security across the state throughout the Yuletide season.