The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested a truck driver for allegedly attempting to run over its operatives while trying to evade arrest during an operation against the illegal transportation of suspected adulterated petroleum products in Onitsha.
The State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, disclosed that the suspect was intercepted along Borromeo Road, near Limca Road, by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Vandalism Squad acting on credible intelligence.
According to him, the truck was conveying about 4,000 litres of suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), also known as diesel, when it was stopped for routine inspection.
Olatunde alleged that the driver attempted to crush the officers with the truck in a bid to escape but was overpowered and arrested. He identified the suspect as Jonas Nwokpoko, 52, from Izzi South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The Command also arrested another suspect, Chinweze Iloh, 28, from Omor in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State, in connection with the incident.
Preliminary investigations, according to the Commandant, indicate that the suspects are linked to a syndicate allegedly involved in the illegal sale and transportation of adulterated petroleum products.
He said the suspects failed to produce the necessary licences and statutory documents required under the Petroleum Industry Act for the purchase, sale and transportation of petroleum products, leading to the seizure of the truck and its contents.
Olatunde described the alleged attempt to attack NSCDC personnel as a clear indication of the desperation of individuals engaged in economic sabotage.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and combating illegal petroleum activities across Anambra State, adding that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the suspected syndicate.
The Commandant also appealed to members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to strengthen efforts against economic sabotage and other criminal activities.
