The Akwa Ibom command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has impounded 8,400 litres of petrol being smuggled out of the country to Cameroon.
Eluyemi Eluwade, the state commandant, who spoke in a briefing with journalists in Uyo, said the petrol was concealed in 28 drums of 300 litres each.
Eluwade said personnel of the command’s marine unit intercepted and seized the product on April 13 along the Mbo River.
He added that the suspects dived into the river to evade arrest.
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“Our marine squad was on routine patrol along the waterways with its gunboat when they accosted the long wooden boat carrying the product,” he said.
“This happened near the international waters between Nigeria and Cameroon; the suspects dived into the river to escape arrest.
“While the suspects dived into the water, we refused to use firearms because the product in question is highly inflammable.”
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He expressed the commitment of the command to tackle all forms of oil theft and bunkering activities in the state.
Eluwade also disclosed the arrest of one suspect for allegedly assaulting officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) who were on duty along Oron Road in Uyo.
He said the attack was carried out using clubs and machetes by residents who were disgruntled over their power supply and bills.
He condemned the attack, saying it was unlawful and punishable.
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“Some Nigerians are dissatisfied with the power situation and bills being given to them by the PHEDC. It is better to express grievances through lawful means,” Eluwade added.
“Assault and mob action on PHEDC officials can never be justified. It is a criminal offence and punishable under the criminal code.”
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