The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has approved the deployment of two gunboats to the Rivers State Command to strengthen security operations on waterways.
The Commandant General Ahmed Audi, stated that the deployment was aimed at enhancing the corps’ capacity to secure the waterways and combat crimes associated with the maritime environment, particularly crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism.
The gunboats were formally taken over by the Rivers State Commandant Dennis Reuben, at Abonema Wharf where he commended the Commandant General for the initiative.
READ ALSO: NSCDC Launches Telecom Infrastructure Safety Campaign
Dr. Reuben described the deployment as a significant boost to the operational effectiveness of the command, especially in tackling criminal activities within the state’s maritime environment.
He warned oil thieves, pipeline vandals and operators of illegal oil bunkering to desist from their activities, stressing that the NSCDC would continue to pursue offenders within the ambit of the law.
“Our message to oil thieves and unrepentant illegal oil bunkerers is clear: desist from these criminal activities. We will continue to go after those, who violate the law and anyone arrested will face the full weight of the law,” he said
In another development, NSCDC operatives carried out an intelligence-led operation in parts of Port Harcourt City, following credible intelligence and complaints from residents about suspected illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities.
The operation led to the arrest of three suspected drug peddlers and the recovery of substances suspected to be Tramadol, cannabis and Crystal Methamphetamine, also known as “Ice” as well as two weighing scales and two mobile phones.
The command’s Intelligence Department handed over the three suspects and recovered exhibits to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Rivers State Command, for further investigation and prosecution.
The State Commandant expressed satisfaction with the operational successes recorded, assuring residents of the command’s zero tolerance for criminality and strengthened collaboration with other security agencies.
“We will continue to respond proactively to credible intelligence and complaints as well as respect the rule of law and the fundamental rights of all persons,” he added.
