NSCDC arrests six for illegal petroleum dealing, impersonation in Akwa Ibom

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Akwa Ibom Command, has announced the arrest of six suspects in connection with criminal conspiracy, illegal dealing in petroleum products, and impersonation.

The arrest was made on the Calabar-Itu highway on Monday, January 29, 2024, following a tip-off received by operatives of the anti-vandal squad.

Mr. Eluyemi Eluwade, the NSCDC Commandant in Akwa Ibom, revealed the details during a news briefing in Uyo. According to Eluwade, the suspects were apprehended, and a MAC truck used for conveying illegal petroleum products was impounded during the operation. Additionally, a Toyota Camry car, utilized for escorting and facilitating passage through checkpoints without scrutiny, was also seized.

The suspects, posing as a joint task force of a security agency, were escorting the truck carrying approximately 45,000 liters of diesel to an undisclosed destination without the necessary documents. Eluwade emphasized that the command acted on intelligence to deploy personnel for the interception on the Calabar-Itu highway.

The arrested suspects are currently undergoing investigations at the NSCDC state command headquarters. Eluwade issued a stern warning to individuals engaged in illegal activities in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, urging them to desist from such nefarious practices.