By Desmond Ejibas
Port Harcourt – The Nigeria Navy has detained 11 suspected artisans for allegedly transporting metal materials for the construction of illegal refineries in Rivers.
Cdr. Sa’id Kabir, the Base Operations Officer, Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder in Port Harcourt, revealed this while handing over the suspects to the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Monday.
Kabir said troops apprehended the suspects during a routine patrol of Krakrama waterways as part of efforts to combat illegal bunkering of crude oil in the state.
“The arrests were made in line with the strategic mandate on zero tolerance for crude oil and other petroleum products theft in the country.
“On Jan. 23, the NNS Pathfinder’s Tactical Response and Assault Squadron intercepted a boat with 11 crew members during a routine patrol around Krakrama creeks.
“About 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron and 20 gas cylinders were found carefully concealed in the wooden boat for the construction of illegal refining sites in the creeks,” he said.
Kabir said the discovery was made possible due to commitment by the naval base to deny oil thieves freedom to operate in the state.
“Further findings revealed that the suspects were conveying the materials to the Bille general area with intent to begin the construction of illegal refining sites in the area.
“It was also discovered that the suspects specialise in the construction of illegal refinery and were contracted by one Mr John to build a refining site in Bille community.
“Consequently, the base is making concerted efforts to arrest John and other suspects involved in this criminal enterprise,” he added.
The officer warned oil thieves and illegal bunkers to relocate from the state as troops of NNS Pathfinder troops were gaining ground to arrest and bring them to justice.
He said the navy was aware of the attempts by criminal elements to discredit the security outfit in order to have freedom in their illicit operations.
“The base will not be deterred by the antics of enemies of the nation in the discharge of our constitutional duties.
“We assure the good people of Rivers state of our readiness to provide a peaceful and secure environment for the conduct of legitimate commercial activities.
“To this end, NNS Pathfinder requests the support of members of the public to provide us with useful information on suspicious criminal activities in their communities,” he pleaded.
Receiving the 11 suspects and items, DSC Lawal Monday of NSCDC command in Rivers, assured that the matter would be swiftly investigated, and the outcome made known to the public.
He also assured that the suspects would be taken to court if found culpable of the allegations against them. (NAN)
