The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, has apprehended three individuals suspected of engaging in oil theft within the state.

Speaking during the parade of the suspects on Friday, the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Olatunde Maku, affirmed the commitment of the agency to intensify efforts against crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and petroleum products black market racketeering in Anambra.

Maku disclosed that the operation was conducted by a joint team comprising the anti-vandalism squad of the command, led by ACC Chinenye Chinweze, and the Nigerian Navy.

“The three suspects: Okechukwu Okeke, aged 28, from Ojoto, Idemili South; Emeka Chukwuma, aged 34, from Akili-Ozizor, Ogbaru; and Ifunanya Ike, aged 29, of Mbano, Imo State, were apprehended on Thursday, March 28, along Atani Road in Odekpe community in Ogbaru,” Maku stated.

He revealed that the suspects were transporting 65 kegs, each containing 25 litres of suspected adulterated automotive gas oil, totaling about 1,625 litres. The illegal products were found in two shuttle buses—one white-colored bus with plate number Anambra AWK 429 XY, and an ash-colored bus with registration number Anambra GDD277XB.

“Preliminary investigation indicates that the illegally refined products were loaded at Ogbakuma community and headed to Okoti community, both in Ogbaru of Anambra,” Maku added.

Commending the Nigerian Navy for their collaboration in combating criminal activities, Maku emphasized the significance of such partnerships in combating illicit activities effectively.

He reiterated the NSCDC’s determination as the lead agency in safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, emphasizing the agency’s unwavering focus on eradicating illegal petroleum products racketeering and related criminal activities in Anambra State.