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From Our Correspondent
The Nigeria Police, in conjunction with other relevant security agencies, has arrested 40 suspected oil thieves and recovered two vessels in two different interceptions.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force PRO, announced this in a statement emailed to TheNewsZenith on Friday evening.
Adejobi stated that the arrests were part of the Force’s intensified efforts to curb the illegal oil theft and economic sabotage in the country.
He said the security operatives conducted the operation in active liaison on intelligence sharing and collaboration with Private Security Contractors (PSCs) engaged by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
“The efforts led to the arrest of 40 suspected individuals and recovered two vessels in two different interceptions.
According to him, the interceptions were at the Ogbogoro Oil Field, Brass Area, and Ekeni Area of Southern-Ijaw in Bayelsa State.
He stated that the suspects committed offences ranging from conspiracy, tampering with oil pipelines, illegal transportation of crude oil, dealing in crude and storing same without lawful authority or appropriate license.
“Security operatives apprehended the suspects and subjected them to investigations. The investigations established a prima facie case against them.
“They will be arraigned in court to face charges related to economic sabotage and oil theft which have been filed.
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“Similarly, operatives seized the vessels they used in the illegal activities. The vessels will serve as part of the evidence against the suspects,” the Force PRO stated.
Specifically, he said the Police would arraign all suspects involved in of one of the vessels, on Feb. 26.
Also, the motion for interim forfeiture of the vessel and products contained therein will be heard on Feb. 19.
However, Adejobi said preliminary investigations have indicted numerous individuals and companies and their foreign collaborators.
The Police will interrogate and make them to face the full wrath of the law.
”The Inspector-General of Police, has therefore, urged the public to be vigilant. He asked them to report all suspicious activities related to oil theft and economic sabotage to the NPF.
”This is in line with the Force’s mandate as enshrined in Section 4 (d) of the Police Act 2020 empowering the Police to enforce all laws without any prejudice to the enabling Act of other security agencies.
”The Police is committed to improved synergy with relevant stakeholders towards putting an end to the illegal activities of oil theft and economic sabotage in the country,” the statement read in part.
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