The Inspector-General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering made significant strides in July, recovering 250,000 litres of crude oil and 350,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in nationwide operations. In addition to seizing 13 trucks, the task force arrested 17 individuals involved in various illegal activities, including a syndicate smuggling petroleum products to neighbouring countries like Cameroon.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to combating petroleum theft and illegal bunkering. He vowed that the police would intensify efforts to protect the country’s petroleum resources.
Adejobi detailed several key operations, including one on July 13 in Adamawa, where the task force intercepted three Toyota Corolla cars carrying a total of 130 jerry cans, each filled with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). The suspects, believed to be part of an organized criminal syndicate smuggling fuel into Cameroon, were taken into custody, and the vehicles and evidence were impounded at the Girei Divisional Police Headquarters.
In another operation on July 16, the task force intercepted a truck carrying about 45,000 litres of suspected crude oil in the Igwuruta area of Rivers State. Subsequent analysis confirmed the substance as crude oil, likely obtained through tampering with an oil pipeline. The owner, identified as Chief Eze Great, claimed ownership but failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for how he obtained the oil. The case has been brought before the court, with relevant charges to be filed soon.
