NSCDC Cracks Down On Crude Oil Theft Ring  Rivers State

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dealt a major blow to illegal crude oil siphoning in Rivers State, arresting five individuals suspected of being involved in the theft of a large quantity of crude oil.

The arrests were made by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS) in a coordinated operation following credible intelligence received from residents.

The suspects were apprehended at a location known as “Sambisa Forest” in Umuedeokwara, Odagwa Community, Etche Local Government Area.

Upon arrival at the location, NSCDC operatives discovered a large, dug-in reservoir containing a significant amount of stolen crude oil.

The oil was packaged into cellophane nylons and sacks, estimated to be over 100,000 litres in total.

A manifold, used to siphon oil directly from a flowline, was also found at the scene.

This, along with the large volume of oil, suggests a well-organized operation targeting a significant amount of crude oil.

All five suspects have confessed to their involvement in the illegal activities during preliminary investigations.

Items seized as evidence include:

• Large quantities of siphoned crude oil within the dug-in pit
• Cellophane nylons and sacks containing stolen oil
• Drums and jerrycans
  Industrial hoses used for illegal connections
• Buckets, funnels, shovels, and other materials used in the theft

The NSCDC commended the cooperation of residents in providing information and vowed to continue its efforts to combat economic sabotage in the region.

The arrested suspects will be arraigned in court after further investigations.