TheCable

The Nigerian Navy says it has arrested 11 persons for allegedly attempting to construct an illegal refinery in Rivers state.

Sa’id Kabir, base operations officer of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) pathfinder, Port Harcourt, said the suspects were arrested during a patrol of Krakrama waterways to combat illegal oil bunkering in Rivers state.

Kabir said the suspects have been handed over to Monday Lawal, Rivers commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), on Monday.

“The arrests were made in line with the strategic mandate on zero tolerance for crude oil and other petroleum products theft,” NAN quoted Kabir as saying.

“NNS Pathfinder’s Tactical Response and Assault Squadron intercepted a boat with 11 persons on board during a patrol around Krakrama Creeks on January 23.

“Ten metal plates, 14 angle iron and 20 gas cylinders were found carefully concealed in the wooden boat for the construction of illegal refining facility in the creeks.

“Investigation revealed that the suspects were conveying the materials to Bille, a riverine community with the intent to construct an illegal refinery.

“It was also discovered that the suspects specialise in the construction of illegal refineries and were contracted by one Mr John. The base is making concerted efforts to arrest John and other suspects involved in this criminal enterprise.

“The base will not be deterred by the antics of enemies of the nation in the discharge of its constitutional duties.

“We assure the people of Rivers of our readiness to facilitate a peaceful and secure environment for the conduct of legitimate business activities.”

While receiving the 11 suspects and the recovered items, the Rivers NSCDC commandant assured that the matter would be swiftly investigated, and the outcome made public.

He added that the suspects would be charged in court after the completion of the investigation.