Pipeline vandals arrested in Abia as NSCDC intensifies crackdown

The Abia State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested three men over alleged oil pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and illegal dealings in petroleum products in Umuowaga Umuelechi Obuzo Asa, Ukwa West Local Council of the state.

Spokesperson for the command, Doreen Udugwu, disclosed this in a statement yesterday, noting that the arrest followed actionable intelligence that prompted the anti-vandal patrol team to act swiftly.

She revealed that substantial quantities of petroleum products were recovered during the operation.

The suspects were identified as Oscar Eteobong, 37, from Abak Local Council of Akwa Ibom State; Issac Aniete Edemba Udoh, 40, from Obot Akara Local Council, also in Akwa Ibom; and Emmanuel Uzoma Sunday, 20, from Isiala Ngwa North Local Council of Abia State.

The state Commandant of the NSCDC, Akinsola Aderemi, said investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the crime. He noted that the activities of the suspects were aimed at sabotaging the nation’s economy.

Aderemi reiterated the command’s commitment to eradicating criminal elements from Abia State and warned those involved in illegal activities to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

He also urged members of the public to cooperate with the NSCDC by providing credible intelligence to aid in apprehending criminals.