NSCDC Seizes 45,000 Litres of Suspected Illegal Ethanol, Arrests Three in Akwa Ibom

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Akwa Ibom State Command, has arrested three suspects and impounded a tanker loaded with 45,000 litres of ethanol suspected to have been illegally acquired during an intelligence-led operation in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state.

The State Commandant, Mrs. Geraldine Abetianbe, disclosed the development while briefing journalists in Uyo, saying the operation was carried out by operatives of the command following credible intelligence.

According to her, the tanker was intercepted at about 1:00 p.m. on June 23 at Ikot Umo Essien along Aba Road in Essien Udim Local Government Area.

"On June 23, at about 1300hrs, our operatives acting on credible intelligence intercepted a petroleum tanker at Ikot Umo Essien, along Aba Road, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

"The tanker, with a capacity of 45,000 litres, was laden with a product suspected to be ethanol acquired illegally. Three suspects were arrested at the scene in connection with the act," Abetianbe said.

The commandant explained that the arrests and seizure were made based on reasonable suspicion surrounding the illegal acquisition and transportation of petroleum products within the state.

She said the suspects presented a waybill during interrogation, but preliminary examination of the document revealed several discrepancies that immediately raised concerns among investigators.

According to Abetianbe, further verification of the information contained in the waybill, including inquiries into the declared point of loading, failed to establish the legitimacy of the consignment.

"This confirmed our suspicion that the product was not sourced through legitimate channels.

"Through synergy, mutual respect and timely information sharing, we recorded this success," she added.

The NSCDC boss warned individuals involved in the illegal petroleum products trade to desist, describing the practice as a serious threat to the nation's economy and public safety.

She said illegal acquisition, diversion and transportation of petroleum products deprive government of legitimate revenue, expose citizens to dangers associated with product adulteration and explosions, and undermine national security.

Abetianbe reaffirmed the Corps commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, stressing that the command would continue to intensify operations against oil thieves and economic saboteurs across the state.

"We shall continue to go after vandals, illegal bunkerers, product adulterators, and all those who engage in diversion and illegal transportation of petroleum products," she said.

She urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to strengthen the fight against economic sabotage and other criminal activities.