The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Command, has arrested five suspects following the discovery of an illegal diesel refining site in Panisau, Ungoggo Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, confirmed the operation in a statement issued on Friday.
The suspects were identified as Ibrahim Bello, 28; Musbahu Adam, 38; Rabiu Dahiru, 27; Haruna Kabiru, 26; and Sunusi Ahmad, 25.
According to the statement, the operation involved personnel from the command’s Operations Department, oil and gas unit, armed squad and anti-vandalism unit.
The exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by the corps to tackle economic sabotage, protect the environment and enforce regulations governing oil and gas activities.
Following the operation, the illegal refining site was sealed, while investigations into the activities and alleged involvement of the arrested individuals continued.
The command warned that illegal refining operations pose significant risks to public safety and environmental sustainability.
It said such activities could result in pollution, environmental degradation and other hazards, while also undermining the country’s economic security.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to combating illegal activities and protecting critical national assets, the environment and the wellbeing of residents.
Deborah Adeyefa
