One arrested as NSCDC, military uncover illegal refinery in Anambra
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State chapter, has arrested a suspect following the discovery of an illegal artisanal refinery and illegal petrol station at Y-Junction, Nkwelle Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.
A statement released on Sunday by the Head of Media and Tactical, NSCDC, Anambra State Command, Okadigbo Edwin, disclosed that the discovery followed a joint coordinated operation involving the Nigerian Army and the Navy.
Edwin said the team conducted the raid on Saturday following credible intelligence of suspected illegal dealings in petroleum products within the area.
He added that a suspect was arrested while others fled the scene.
He further disclosed that a couple of petroleum products were intercepted and seized.
He listed some of the exhibits to include 49 kegs of 25 litres suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil, four drums of 200 litres each, suspected adulterated Premium Motor Spirit, and one pumping machine.
He said, “In a joint coordinated operation, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Navy have uncovered a massive illegal artisanal refinery and illegal petrol station at Y-Junction, Nkwelle Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.
“The breakthrough was achieved following credible intelligence of suspected illegal dealings in petroleum products within the area.
“The team conducted the raid on the locations on Saturday at about 1:45 pm. They intercepted and arrested a suspect while others fled the scene.”
He said the command remains committed to ridding the areas of operations of all forms of illegal dealings in petroleum products and arresting perpetrators.
“Our sights are set on individuals and groups using unwholesome covers for oil-related wrongdoings, and those brazenly committing crimes and criminalities in oil, gas and energy sectors of the economy; if they fail to change, the command is resolute and will take more decisive actions against you in Anambra State,” he said.
He further assured of the prosecution of the suspect, and the arrest of his accomplices at large.
“This collaboration with sister security agencies showcases our united front against crime in Anambra State.
“NSCDC, as the lead agency in the protection of critical national, state and local government assets and infrastructure, and checkmating illegal dealings in petroleum products and untoward profiteering, is warning economic saboteurs to stay clear of Anambra state. Our operational mechanisms are in place to smoke them out,” he added.
