The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abia State has exposed an illegal refinery operating deep within the forest of Isiala Ihie in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area. During the operation, two suspects were apprehended, and a significant quantity of petroleum products was seized.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Abia State NSCDC Command, Doreen Udugwu, the discovery was made by the Command’s Crack Squad, which had been conducting surveillance in the area. The illicit refinery was cleverly concealed in the dense bush, making it difficult to detect.
During the sting operation, the team uncovered large amounts of crude oil products at different stages of processing. The statement revealed that the petroleum products are believed to have been siphoned from a nearby pipeline that had been vandalized. The seized items and the arrested individuals were taken into custody for further investigation.
Speaking to journalists at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday, Abia State NSCDC Commandant Akinsola Aderemi emphasized the agency’s commitment to tackling illegal oil activities. He assured the public that investigations would continue to track down all those connected to the operation.
“This action aligns with the directive from our Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to intensify the fight against illegal bunkering,” said Aderemi. He vowed that the NSCDC would remain steadfast in ensuring Abia State is safe for its law-abiding residents.
The Commandant also called on members of the public to assist the NSCDC by providing reliable information about criminal activities in their communities. “Your collaboration can help us bring those breaking the law to justice,” he added.
