By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a concerted effort to combat economic sabotage and stem the tide of illegal oil theft plaguing Nigeria's oil-rich regions, the Nigeria Police Force, in conjunction with military units and private security contractors, has executed a significant operation resulting in the arrest of forty individuals and the recovery of two vessels involved in illicit activities. The operation, conducted at the Ogbogoro Oil Field, Brass Area, and Ekeni Area of Southern-Ijaw in Bayelsa State, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against economic crimes threatening the nation's prosperity.
According to ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the arrests were made possible through collaborative efforts with Private Security Contractors (PSCs) engaged by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), notably Tantita Security Services, as well as other relevant security agencies. Adejobi underscored the gravity of the charges leveled against the suspects, which include conspiracy, tampering with oil pipelines, illegal transportation of crude oil, and unauthorized storage of crude. He stated unequivocally, "The suspects will be arraigned in court to face the full wrath of the law."
The Inspector-General of Police emphasized the importance of public vigilance in combating oil theft, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He reaffirmed the police's commitment to working closely with all stakeholders, including government security agencies, to eradicate the scourge of economic sabotage from Nigeria's oil industry.
Preliminary investigations have revealed a web of complicity involving numerous individuals and companies, as well as foreign collaborators. These entities, implicated in the illicit trade, will be thoroughly interrogated and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The crackdown serves as a stern warning to those seeking to exploit Nigeria's natural resources for personal gain, signaling the government's unwavering determination to safeguard national assets and hold perpetrators of economic crimes accountable.
In addition to the arrests, authorities have seized two vessels allegedly used in the illegal activities as part of the evidence against the suspects. The vessels will undergo legal proceedings, with the arraignment of those involved in one of the cases scheduled for February 26, 2024. Furthermore, a motion for the interim forfeiture of the vessels and their contents is set to be heard on February 19, 2024, further underscoring the authorities' commitment to swift and decisive action against economic sabotage.
The successful operation represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat economic crimes in Nigeria's oil sector. By intensifying enforcement measures and fostering greater collaboration among law enforcement agencies and stakeholders, the Nigerian government aims to deter illicit activities and protect the nation's vital economic interests.
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