In a major crackdown on illicit oil operations, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has uncovered an illegal artisanal refinery and an unauthorised petrol station at Y-Junction, Nkwelle Ezunaka in Oyi Local Government Area.
The discovery was made during a coordinated operation conducted o in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Navy, following credible intelligence reports about suspicious petroleum-related activities in the area.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the NSCDC’s Head of Media and Tactical Operations in Anambra, Okadigbo Edwin, the team stormed the site at about 1:45 p.m. and apprehended one suspect while others at the scene fled.
The operation led to the seizure of significant quantities of petroleum products believed to be adulterated. Items recovered included 49 kegs of 25 litres each, containing suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), four 200-litre drums of suspected adulterated Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and one pumping machine used in the illegal operation.
Confirming the development, the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, said the suspect and the recovered exhibits have been taken into custody and handed over to the appropriate authorities for investigation and prosecution.
Commandant Olatunde stressed the NSCDC’s unwavering commitment to cleansing Anambra State of illegal oil activities.
“We are determined to free our area of operations from all forms of illegal dealings in petroleum products,” he said. “Operators and perpetrators of illegal oil refineries must steer clear of this state or be ready to face the full wrath of the law.”
He warned that the command is closely monitoring individuals and syndicates using deceptive business fronts to carry out oil-related crimes.
“Our sights are set on individuals and groups using unwholesome covers for oil-related wrongdoings. If they fail to change, the command is resolute and will take more decisive actions against them in Anambra State,” he added.
The NSCDC also praised the Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Army for their vital support, noting that such inter-agency cooperation demonstrates a united front against economic sabotage and criminality in the oil and gas sector.
“This collaboration with sister security agencies showcases our joint commitment to combating crime,” Olatunde said.
“As the lead agency in the protection of critical infrastructure, the NSCDC will continue to take the necessary steps to detect and dismantle illegal operations in the petroleum sector.”
He concluded by assuring the public of a thorough investigation and eventual prosecution of all suspects involved in the illicit refinery, reiterating the agency’s resolve to protect the nation’s economic assets from saboteurs.
