The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended eight suspects involved in illegal petroleum activities and vandalization of public infrastructure in Rivers State.
This was disclosed by the NSCDC Commandant in Rivers State, Joachim Okafor, during a media briefing on Saturday in Port Harcourt.
According to Okafor, the suspects were arrested at different locations in the state for transporting illegally refined petroleum products and vandalized concrete rods used for manholes, hedge beams, and other public facilities.
The arrests, carried out by the Command’s Anti-Vandal Unit and Tactical Team, also led to the seizure of five vehicles, including three trucks, which were being used to transport stolen crude oil and vandalized metals.
“The Command is interrogating the suspects to uncover their sponsors,” Okafor said, stressing that the fight against economic sabotage and the destruction of critical national assets has intensified.
He warned perpetrators of vandalism to desist from such acts, vowing that “our eagle-eye operatives will fish them out.” He added, “At the end of investigations, suspects found guilty will be charged to court and prosecuted accordingly.”
Okafor also urged the public to collaborate with the NSCDC by reporting suspicious activities in their communities. “Security is everybody’s business,” he emphasized.
The NSCDC’s recent action is part of its broader effort to curb economic sabotage and protect national infrastructure, which remains critical to the country’s development.