Troops apprehend half-dozen alleged fuel smugglers in Lagos

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No fewer than six suspected oil bunkerers were arrested by troops of the 65 Battalion of the Nigerian Army in the Orile General Area of Lagos State.

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PUNCH Metro learnt on Wednesday that the suspects were nabbed by the troops following an intelligence-led operation carried out under the leadership of the commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel S. Adeojo.

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According to the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Musa Yahaya, on X on Wednesday, the raid led to the recovery of four trucks, one pumping machine, and assorted pipes and drums allegedly used for illegal bunkering operations.

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The statement added that the suspects and the recovered items had been handed over to the Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and necessary action.

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The army said, “Acting on credible intelligence, the troops raided the site and arrested six suspected oil bunkerers. The operation also led to the recovery of four trucks, one pumping machine, and assorted pipes and drums allegedly used for illegal bunkering activities.”

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Commending the troops for the successful operation, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, charged them to sustain the fight against economic sabotage and other criminal activities.

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He urged the troops “to sustain the offensive against economic sabotage and other criminal activities within the 81 Division Area of responsibility.”

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The Army said the operation forms part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering, protect critical national assets, and strengthen security across its area of responsibility.

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