Dr Ahmed Audi, Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has warned personnel of the corps to desist involvement in oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
Audi gave the directive on Friday during a strategic meeting with state Commandants and Anti-vandal Squad leaders at NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja.
He said that the meeting was to address the public perception that security agencies were part of the unfortunate situation of oil theft and illegal oil bunkering across the country.
He said that the meeting was also aimed at unveiling the latest policy approved by the Ministry of Interior to checkmate the behaviour of personnel in charge of oil pipelines, critical asset among others.
“This is with a view to stop or curtail oil theft and illegal oil bunkering,” he said.
The CG further said that the Corps would ensure severe punishment for any personnel discovered to be involved in sabotaging the efforts of government.
“The corps will use its hammer on any personnel no matter his or her position that is involved in oil theft or pipeline vandalism.
“If you have the intent that you joined the corps to make money by collaborating with oil thieves and illegal bunkers, we urge you to resign immediately because this corps is not for you,” he said.
He said that some anti-vandal unit men in some state commands had been found wanting in relation to oil theft and a panel of inquiry had been instituted.
“The corps has started a discreet investigation on the activities of its anti-vandal squad,” he said.
He called on the anti-vandal squad leaders to reposition the unit for better performances, commitment, loyalty and dedication to duty.
According to him, the corps within one year had arrested over 200 oil theft suspects, impounded over 500 trucks and clamped down over 50 illegal refineries.
The NSCDC boss also said that the Corps was determined to continue to stop and arrest members of the public involved in oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism.
He reiterated that the Corps Acts 2003 as amended in 2007 indicated that NSCDC is to protect government critical structure as his administration is committed to leaving up to expectations.
He appreciated the Federal Government for making available funds for the procurement of machineries used in combating these criminals but asked for more.
Audi called for closer collaboration with sister agencies to ensure Nigeria’s critical infrastructure and asset are adequately secured.
