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By Ekpo James.
Men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Akwa Ibom command, In a swift operation, successfully intercepted a group of smugglers attempting to transport 8,400 litres of petrol across the border into Cameroon.
The state commandant, Eluyemi Eluwade, revealed that the smuggled petrol was cleverly concealed within 28 drums, each containing 300 litres. The interception took place on April 13, along the Mbo River by the command’s marine unit
He added that the suspects dived into the river to evade arrest.
“Our marine squad was on routine patrol along the waterways with its gunboat when they accosted the long wooden boat carrying the product,” he said.
“This happened near the international waters between Nigeria and Cameroon; the suspects dived into the river to escape arrest.
“While the suspects dived into the water, we refused to use firearms because the product in question is highly inflammable.”
He expressed the commitment of the command to tackle all forms of oil theft and bunkering activities in the state.
Eluwade also disclosed the arrest of one suspect for allegedly assaulting officials of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) who were on duty along Oron Road in Uyo.
He said the attack was carried out using clubs and machetes by residents who were disgruntled over their power supply and bills.
He condemned the attack, saying it was unlawful and punishable.
“Some Nigerians are dissatisfied with the power situation and bills being given to them by the PHEDC. It is better to express grievances through lawful means,” Eluwade added.
“Assault and mob action on PHEDC officials can never be justified. It is a criminal offence and punishable under the criminal code.”
