NSCDC arrests 30 pipeline vandals, oil thieves in Bayelsa

Godwin Nwachukwu, Bayelsa Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), said on Sunday that the command arrested 30 suspects over various offences between January and April, TOPNAIJA.NG can confirm.

Nwachukwu said in Yenagoa that the suspects were arrested for pipeline vandalism, oil theft and diversion of refined products.

According to him, investigations into the alleged offences were at various stages and that the suspects would be prosecuted afterwards.

Nwachukwu said the command had however ensured reduction of pipeline vandalism and sabotage on oil infrastructure in its area of operation.

According to him, some oil firms operating in the state had confirmed the reduction of the incidents at their oil fields.

“We have had oil companies confirm that our operation had stabilised their activities, leading to uninterrupted oil production.

“Agip at a time suspended operations in Bayelsa due to high levels of oil theft. But only last week, the management of the company commended the improvement in security.

“We are however not leaving anything to chance. Our strategy is to keep our operatives actively engaged in constant patrols to deter vandals.

“There is also cordial relationship with sister security services; we often collaborate with each other in fighting crime,’’ he said.