By: Emmanuel Nlewedum
Rivers State Police Command on Monday paraded 18 persons said to have been involved in illegal refining of petroleum products popularly known as ‘Kpo-Fire’ in the state
Briefing journalists at the police headquarters in Port Harcourt, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday stated that the suspects were arrested at different locations in the state.
CP Friday said men of the command also impounded two tankers and two large trucks used for illegal storage and transportation of illegally refined product.
He noted that the activities of the illegal oil bunkerers play a primary and critical role in contributing to the air pollution experienced in the state, adding that the command will leave no stone unturned in fishing out more perpetrators and deal with them accordingly.
He disclosed that the suspects will be charged to court immediately investigations.
The state police boss used the medium to warn all individuals, families and communities involved in illegal oil bunkering in Rivers State to desist or face the full wrath of the law.
“Anyone or group of persons found to be complicit in such activities will be duly arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“As you all know, the issue of “black soot” and air pollution in Rivers State is one that goes beyond just security of lives and properties as it affects the health of everyone, especially our children.
“The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Police Force under my leadership is determined to continue to work with the government, communities and the general public to bring to justice all those contributing to this most undesirable problem”.
