The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Akwa Ibom announced that, on March 9, its Marine Unit seized 150 smuggled drums of petrol and arrested two suspects. The commandant, Mr. Yusuf Imam, briefed reporters in Uyo, explaining that the operation was based on intelligence that led to the interception of a wooden boat transporting the fuel on the high seas toward Cameroon. In addition to the petrol, the operatives confiscated five engines and a pumping machine used for stealing petroleum products.
Imam detailed that the arrests and seizure occurred in the early hours of Thursday in Ibeno Local Government Area. Acting on credible intelligence, the NSCDC Marine Squad, led by Jamilu Mohammed Adamu, deployed the corps’ gunboat, chased the vessel, and intercepted it near the Atlantic Ocean as it attempted to smuggle petrol into Cameroon. The commandant warned that the corps would not tolerate crime on its waterways and would confront all acts of economic sabotage and vandalism in the state with the full force of the law.
“It’s not going to be business as usual in my time,” Imam declared. “I am here to work, and you can expect to see more of this as we will make Akwa Ibom a living hell for vandals, illegal bunkerers and oil thieves.” He urged anyone involved in economic sabotage to desist immediately and pursue legitimate ventures. Under the leadership of Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Audi, the NSCDC will continue its relentless fight against oil theft, which has deprived the country of enormous revenue.
Imam called on the people of Akwa Ibom, traditional institutions, community‑based organisations, and the youth to cooperate with the NSCDC by providing useful information and helping ensure safety in the environment. He added that the suspects would be charged in court once the investigation is completed.
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