The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has apprehended, at least, 20 suspected crude oil thieves in Rivers State

The state Commandant, NSCDC, Muktar Lawal, giving details of operation when he spoke in Port Harcourt, Rivers state capital, said the operatives were able to impound two boats, two trucks, vehicles and pipes used by the suspects to convey  stolen products to different locations in the state.

Muktar who wondered why thieves would continue their illegal activities despite the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic, said the corps would continue to perform it obligation of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure in the state.

Explaining the operations, he said three suspects were nabbed at Alakiri creeks in Gokana Local Government Area for destroying petroleum products, adding that a boat and two drums containing suspected AGO were recovered from them.

He said his command received four suspects and a tug boat from the Nigerian Army arrested at Okirika Local Government Area for illegal dealing in petroleum products.

Muktar explained that two boat engines, rubber and PVC pipes were seized from five suspects apprehended by his operatives at Okrika community in Ahoada West Local Government Area.

He revealed that at the Yam Zone Town of the state, his operatives impounded a truck laden with suspected stolen petroleum product and arrested a suspect.