Patience Leonard, PBA Journalism Mentee
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reported that a total number of 24 suspects have been apprehended in connection with illegal oil bunkering activities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The commission said the suspects were arrested on July 18th, 2022 at Abonima wharf area of Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe Commission disclosed that the area is suspected to be notorious for illicit refining of petroleum products, offloading and transloading them into vehicles and trucks for distribution within the state and other states.
According to EFCC, the suspects were arrested based on credible intelligence.
The Commission, however, said its personnel were attacked with dangerous weapons as they encountered stiff resistance from the suspects. The rear windscreen of one of the Commission’s buses used for the operation was damaged, during the battle.
“In the course of the arrest, a large quantity of products stored in large tanks and drums were discovered but could not be evacuated for security reasons. A Volkswagen Passat Car with registration number ABM 146 RR Rivers was recovered” disclosed the Commission.
The suspects arrested are Biokpor Kparango, Peace Udofia, Williams Niyabe, Sufiyanu A. Sale, Ibinabo Sila, Precious Christopher, God is Great Anna, Api Eli, Sabath Orubo, Life Sunday, Paul West and Obi Omini.
Others are Lucky Akaluogbo, Victor Chibuzor, Omole Oluwa Muyiwa, Darlington Michael, Uche Nwankwo, Onyinyechi Anayo, Emem Udofot, Mary Isaiah, Emabong Udoh, Confidence Sotonye, Ukoren Friday and Kingsley Edem.
