Major crackdown on oil theft uncovers illegal bunkering operation in Rivers State

The operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering (IGP-STFPIB) have achieved a significant breakthrough.

On September 12, 2024, in collaboration with the department of operations from the Rivers State Command, they discovered a clandestine storage facility in Trans Amadi, Port-Harcourt, used for processing illegally acquired crude oil.

A statement released by the Police Force Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, detailed the operation’s outcomes, which included the arrest of four suspects: Emmanuel Nwachi, 58; Adamu Bala, 35; Nura Musa, 22; and Bashir Abubakar, 28. The operation also led to the recovery of an astonishing 40,000 liters of petroleum products, meticulously stored in 67 white storage tanks.

In a bold move, the task force destroyed the illegal site and confiscated the equipment and machinery used for these criminal activities.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commented on the development, reaffirming the force’s unwavering commitment to combating all forms of crime, including economic sabotage. He stated, “We remain unyielding and will continue to bring these perpetrators to book,” emphasizing the dedication of the police to protect the nation’s resources and uphold the law.

The operation marks a crucial step in the ongoing battle against economic crimes, sending a clear message that the authorities are resolute in their pursuit of justice and accountability.