Operatives of the Anti-Vandal Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, in Rivers State have uncovered an illegal facility in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area, used for storing stolen crude oil.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Iheanacho Umeado, who revealed that the site contained a large, unspecified quantity of substances suspected to have been siphoned from vandalised pipelines and stored in GP tanks.
He explained that the discovery followed several days of credible intelligence gathering, which led to a swift operation at the location.
During an inspection of the facility, the State Commandant, Joachin Okafor, reiterated the Corps’ firm stance against illegal bunkering, describing it as a serious threat to both the nation’s economy and the environment.
He warned those involved in such activities to desist or face strict legal consequences.
“The Corps maintains zero tolerance for illegal bunkering and will relentlessly pursue those involved, regardless of their status,” Okafor said.
He also expressed concern over the environmental damage caused by illegal refining and storage activities, directing the Command’s Intelligence Department to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.
