Operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have impounded a long-container truck carrying 70,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, marking a significant breakthrough in the fight against oil theft.

The truck, equipped with an in-built tank designed for illicit petroleum transport, was intercepted near the Eleme Junction flyover in Elelenwo after receiving an intelligence tip-off. However, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled when NSCDC operatives closed in.

Chief Superintendent Afolabi Babawale, the NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, confirmed that the operation was conducted by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad. He stated, “The truck was spotted in transit, and our operatives swiftly moved in to seize it. This is a major breakthrough in our ongoing fight against economic sabotage.”

The impounded red-head, navy-blue container truck, bearing registration number AGL574XY, was reportedly engaged in illegally siphoning crude oil from vandalized wellheads and damaged pipelines. Babawale added that a full-scale investigation is underway to identify and apprehend the syndicate responsible for the illicit operation.

He noted that both the stolen crude oil and the truck have been confiscated and will be subject to legal forfeiture. “Once our investigation concludes, we will file for the forfeiture of the vehicle and its contents in a court of competent jurisdiction, with the proceeds remitted to the Proceeds of Crime Account,” he explained.

NSCDC’s National Spokesperson reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to combating oil theft, emphasizing that all those involved will be held accountable. “The NSCDC will not relent in its war against oil thieves and their sponsors. We are determined to bring all perpetrators to book following a thorough investigation,” the spokesperson affirmed.