The Abia command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has destroyed 10 illegal modular refineries operating in Okohia and Owaza oil-bearing communities of the state.
The state commandant, Mr Ayinla Olowo, disclosed this in Umuahia Wenesday while briefing newsmen on the command’s strategic efforts to crack down on dealers in illegal petroleum products and refineries.
Olowo said the command’s efforts paid off on Sunday, when its “Operation Sting” made a major breakthrough in a seven-hour operation in Okohia and Owaza in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
“We have succeeded in frustrating and putting an end to the activities of the operators of the illegal refineries,” he said.
Olowo regretted that the operators fled the area before the operatives arrived at the place for the operation.
“But we are presently on their trail and we will leave no stone unturned until they are arrested and brought to justice. My message to them is not to think of coming back to the area,” he said.
Olowo said that, in the interim, the area had been cordoned off by the Anti-vandalism Squad, pending when Shell Petroleum would disconnect the pipes connected to the cooking pots.
Olowo said that the command was willing to partner with the natives to fish out the bad eggs among them.(NAN)
