TheCable

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) says the explosion at the Rumuekpe section of Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Rivers was caused by the activities of oil thieves.

Michael Adande, spokesperson of SPDC, said the incident occurred at the site of an illegal connection used for crude theft. 

The Rivers police command had said 12 persons died after the incident at the Rumuekpe community in Emuoha local government area of the state.

Giving an update, Adande said a breach on the TNP was discovered following a joint investigation by representatives of oil regulators, host communities, operators, and the state ministry of environment. 

 “The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) confirms with great sadness that the fire incident, which occurred on Friday, March 3, 2023, on the Rumuekpe – Nkpoku Trunk Line in Rivers State, resulted in the unfortunate loss of lives,” he said. 

“Government security agencies are still investigating to know the exact number of lives lost in the incident. This is indeed a deeply regrettable incident and we commiserate with the families that have been impacted. 

 “The report of the government-led Joint Investigation Visit team, which included representatives of the community, ascertained that the fire, which has been extinguished, occurred at the site of an illegal connection used for crude theft. 

 “The Rumuekpe – Nkpoku Trunk Line, which was not operational at the time of the incident, is part of the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP).”