NSCDC Pledges To Take Action Against Officers Involved In Illegal Oil Bunkering....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Rivers State command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued a stern warning to its personnel, vowing to take decisive action against any officer involved in illegal oil bunkering.

The State Commandant of NSCDC, Basil Igwebueze, emphasized the command’s dedication to combatting the problems of oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

Basil delivered a strong message to officers serving in the anti-vandalism, marine units, component commanders, and general duty officers in Port Harcourt.

Read Also Senators From Southeast Seek For More Ministerial Slots, Extend Plea To President Bola Tinubu

He emphasized that the Commandant-General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, had a zero-tolerance policy for any actions that could tarnish the NSCDC’s reputation nationwide.

He underscored the importance of upholding professionalism, discipline, and full compliance with the Corps’ Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and ethical values.

The NSCDC stated: “Upon my assumption of duty, you were clearly briefed that my posting to Rivers State is primarily to effectively pursue the core mandate and nothing else.

“We will not hesitate to take appropriate action against you if you are found colluding with economic saboteurs who, for their personal gain, persist in their illicit activities involving petroleum products.

Lately, the Command has received reports alleging that some security agencies are involved in escorting illicitly obtained barges and tankers, extorting tolls, conducting patrols with unmarked vehicles and fiber boats through waterways.

“Let me issue a stern warning to any personnel with such intentions that once we receive a report, you will face official charges and dismissal in accordance with the existing laws governing the Corps.”

He noted that within his three months in office, the command had apprehended 105 suspects involved in illicit activities related to petroleum products, including aiding illegal oil bunkering, illegal mining, dredging, advance fee fraud, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), among others.

Basil mentioned that the command had secured nine convictions during this period, bringing the total number of convicts to 14.

He called for more credible and actionable intelligence from the public and affirmed the command’s readiness to collaborate with government agencies, civil society organizations, religious leaders, community youths, and sister security agencies to eliminate oil theft and its adverse environmental effects in Rivers State.