The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abia State has uncovered an illegal refinery hidden deep within the Isiala Ihie community, located in the Ugwunagbo Local Government Area.
Two suspects were arrested during the operation, which also led to the discovery of large quantities of petroleum products, believed to have been sourced from a nearby vandalized pipeline.
Doreen Udugwu, the Public Relations Officer for the Abia NSCDC, revealed on November 26, 2024, that the Crack Squad made the discovery after a thorough investigation. During the operation, several barrels of petroleum products at various stages of processing were seized.
NSCDC’s Commandant in Abia State, Akinsola Aderemi, stated on November 27 that further investigations will continue to identify and apprehend all those involved. He emphasized that the operation aligns with the directive from the Commandant General of NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to combat illegal bunkering.
Aderemi assured that the Abia NSCDC will continue to work diligently to keep the state safe for law-abiding citizens. He also urged the public to assist in providing credible intelligence that could help further in the fight against criminal activities.