FOURTEEN suspected smugglers of adulterated petroleum products, who were recently arrested in Imo State by officials of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC), were on Tuesday paraded at the Corps Headquarters in Owerri.

The heavy truck allegedly used in the deal was also displayed before the public, who included the Deputy Governor, Eze Madumere, who promised the command all necessary support in their mandate.

He regretted that those allowed to use their trucks to carry chippings now used them to move adulterated petroleum products, adding that they would be prosecuted accordingly to deter others who may intend to engage in such illicit trade.

Meanwhile, the state Corps Commandant, Ancili Pedro, has appealed to the state government to help the command secure an accommodation where the suspects would be kept before prosecution.

The Guardian learnt that the suspects were intercepted at Atta in Ikeduru local council where the driver of the truck, resisting the corps officials, swerved and somersaulted along Okigwe Road junction.