Imam explained that the NSCDC marine unit arrested two suspects and seized 150 drums of PMS being transported in a large wooden boat on the high seas in the Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom. The arrest and seizure of the exhibits took place in the early hours of Thursday. In addition, the operatives confiscated five engines and a pumping machine that were used to steal petroleum products.
Acting on credible intelligence, the NSCDC marine squad led by Jamilu Mohammed Adamu hit the waterways with the corps’ gunboat, chased, and intercepted the boat very close to the Atlantic Ocean while attempting to smuggle petrol into Cameroon.
Mr Imam stated that the corps will not tolerate crime on its waterways and will meet all acts of economic sabotage and vandalism in the state with the full weight of the law. He warned that it is not going to be business as usual in his time, stressing that persons engaged in all forms of economic sabotage in the area should desist immediately and seek meaningful ventures to engage in.
He added that NSCDC, under the leadership of the commandant general, Ahmed Audi, would not relent in the fight against oil theft, which has robbed the country of enormous revenue. Therefore, he urged the people of Akwa Ibom, traditional institutions, community-based organisations, and the youth to cooperate with NSCDC by providing it with useful information and ensuring safety in the environment.
Imam confirmed that the suspects would be charged in court as soon as the investigation was completed. The NSCDC will continue to monitor the waterways to prevent oil theft and other illegal activities in the area, he added.