In a concerted effort to address the pervasive issue of oil theft and economic sabotage in Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, in conjunction with the military and other key security agencies, has escalated its endeavors.
In an official announcement issued Saturday morning, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer at Force Headquarters, Abuja, underscored the significant headway achieved through active collaboration and intelligence exchange with Private Security Contractors (PSCs), notably Tantita Security Services, engaged by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Adejobi noted that recent operations carried out at the Ogbogoro Oil Field in the Brass Area and the Ekeni Area of Southern-Ijaw in Bayelsa State yielded the apprehension of forty (40) individuals suspected of participating in illicit oil-related activities. Furthermore, two (2) vessels have been seized, directly implicated in the unlawful transportation and storage of crude oil without the requisite authority or licenses.
Following their apprehension, Adejobi elucidated that the suspects underwent meticulous investigation, leading to the establishment of prima facie evidence against them. Subsequently, they are slated for arraignment in court to face charges related to economic sabotage and oil theft. Additionally, the vessels utilized in these illegal operations have been confiscated as pivotal evidence in the ongoing legal proceedings.
Regarding legal proceedings, Adejobi highlighted that the arraignment for suspects associated with one of the vessels is scheduled for February 26, 2024, while a motion for the interim forfeiture of the vessel and its cargo is set to be heard on February 19, 2024.
Adejobi further disclosed that preliminary investigations have unveiled the complicity of numerous individuals and companies, including foreign collaborators, who will be subjected to interrogation and brought to justice in due course.
In urging public cooperation, the Inspector-General of Police emphasized vigilance and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to oil theft and economic sabotage. Underlining the Police’s mandate as enshrined in Section 4 (d) of the Police Act 2020, which empowers them to enforce all laws, the IGP reiterated the Police’s commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders and government security agencies to eradicate these unlawful activities.
Adejobi reiterated the unwavering dedication of the Police to heighten its strategies and operations aimed at curbing oil theft and economic sabotage. He emphasized that swift justice awaits individuals or groups involved in such nefarious activities.
