In a recent official statement by the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, in Abuja, a major affair was revealed. This was because individuals were operating an illegal refinery site in a forest at Umelehi in the Ukwa West local government area of the state. This problematic situation ended after nine male and four female suspects were apprehended by the Special Squadron of the Commander General’s Intelligence Service (CGsSIS) and the illegal site was dismantled.
According to Apollo’s Dandaura, squadron commander, the successful arrest is attributed to credible intelligence provided to the corps by well-meaning citizens. The agents acted strategically, given the amount of crude oil already siphoned off and stored in locally made cooking ovens to be transformed into diesel. Some quantities have also already been refined into kerosene and AGO and then stored in GP tanks, cellophane bags and many sacks.
The spokesperson pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the degree of involvement of the suspects in this case. Among the items seized during the operation were generators, pumps, galvanized metal pipes, shovels, headlamps, cellophane bags and cement bags, among others.
This case raises serious concerns about the proliferation of illegal refining operations that are seriously harming the country’s environment and economy. Collaboration between security forces and citizens is crucial to effectively combat such illicit activities. It is imperative to strengthen security and law enforcement measures to address these challenges.
In conclusion, this successful operation to dismantle an illegal refinery highlights the authorities’ determination to combat organized crime and preserve the country’s environmental integrity. Hopefully, this case will serve as a wake-up call to deter other individuals from engaging in such activities harmful to society and nature.