Abia State, Nigeria – The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested two individuals for alleged crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in Abia State.
In a statement released over the weekend, NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, CSC Babawale Zaid Afolabi, confirmed that the suspects were caught siphoning over 100,000 litres of crude oil along the Umuhololo/Etitiuzor Road in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as Chukwuekpe Okeke, 40, and Kingsley Madubuachi Conelius, 31, were apprehended between 3:24 a.m. and 8:21 a.m. on February 14, 2025, following an intelligence report. Conelius is reportedly a member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
According to the NSCDC, the suspects had tampered with an underground crude oil pipeline, using long industrial hoses to siphon the oil into hidden pit reservoirs in the forest. The stolen crude was then stored in plastic containers and cellophane bags.
Upon arrival at the scene, the NSCDC Special Intelligence Squad discovered a large quantity of stolen crude oil and seized various items, including industrial hoses, plastic buckets, control valves, and a black Legend XYM SYM motorcycle. A Tecno mobile phone and slippers belonging to fleeing suspects were also recovered.
The arrested individuals reportedly confessed to their roles in the illegal operation. Meanwhile, the NSCDC has notified the pipeline maintenance team, which has since sealed the tampered section.
Commending the public for providing crucial intelligence, NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
“This arrest is a significant step in our fight against oil theft and economic sabotage. We encourage the public to continue supporting security efforts to protect national resources,” he said.
The suspects are expected to face prosecution as investigations continue.
