Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd (PINL) has uncovered an illegal oil bunkering operation disguised as a logistics company in Eleme, Rivers State. The company, identified as Igor Logistics Services Ltd, was allegedly being used by oil thieves to siphon crude oil from the 28-inch Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) along the Ebubu new road in Eleme Local Government Area.
The operation resulted in the arrest of seven individuals, including two officers from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) who were stationed at the logistics company. Key staff members of the company were also arrested, and all suspects are currently assisting security agencies with their investigations.
Two trailer trucks, each with a capacity of 45,000 liters and specifically modified for the illegal operation, were seized within the company’s premises. These trucks were found loading crude oil from a valve located less than 200 meters away from the company’s compound.
Dr. Patrick Onogwu, Senior Manager of Security and Government Affairs at PINL, explained that the arrests were made possible through intelligence gathered by PINL’s surveillance team, which increased security presence in the area and ultimately exposed the illegal activities.
Onogwu further detailed how the logistics company, which primarily dealt in exporting precious stones like quartz and glass sand to China, was used by oil thieves due to its proximity to the Trans Niger Pipeline. The criminals tapped into a valve, ran a hose through a hole in the company’s fence, and discreetly loaded crude oil into trucks without the need for pumping equipment.
The operation was carefully concealed, with the trucks camouflaged using 40-foot containers fitted with tanks and sealed with customs seals to avoid detection. The stolen oil was then transported to Akwa Ibom State.
The scheme came to light when a supervisor from Gbenisolo, a second-layer surveillance firm hired by PINL, detected the smell of crude oil and raised the alarm. PINL swiftly notified their security team stationed at Ogale camp, part of the 29th Battalion, who responded immediately.
Upon arrival, security forces encountered two NSCDC officers, who allegedly attempted to delay the response, allowing key suspects inside the compound to escape by scaling the fence. One of the NSCDC officers also attempted to flee but was later apprehended. All suspects have been transferred to NSCDC headquarters for further investigation.