The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested two suspects and impounded a truck loaded with 4,000 litres of suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), popularly known as diesel, in its sustained crackdown on economic sabotage and illegal petroleum trade in the state.
Key Highlights:
- NSCDC arrests two suspects over alleged transportation of adulterated diesel in Anambra.
- Truck carrying 4,000 litres of suspected adulterated AGO seized in Onitsha.
- Suspects allegedly failed to produce valid licences and petroleum transport documents.
- NSCDC says investigations are ongoing to uncover the wider criminal network.
- Corps vows to intensify the fight against petroleum-related crimes and economic sabotage.
Speaking while parading the suspects at the NSCDC State Command Headquarters in Awka, the State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, said the arrests followed an intelligence-led operation conducted by the Command’s Anti-Vandalism Squad.
According to him, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the downstream petroleum sector and safeguard critical national assets.
Olatunde identified the suspects as Jonas Nwokpoko, 52, from Izzi South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, and Chinweze Iloh, 28, from Omor in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State.
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He disclosed that they were arrested on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at about 2:30 p.m. along Boromeu Road, near Limca Road in Onitsha, while transporting the suspected adulterated diesel.
The Commandant explained that preliminary investigations indicate the suspects may be linked to a network involved in the production and distribution of adulterated petroleum products.
He said NSCDC operatives intercepted the truck during a routine inspection and requested documents authorising the purchase, transportation and sale of petroleum products in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
According to Olatunde, the suspects failed to produce the required licences and documentation, leading to their arrest and the seizure of the truck and its contents.
He noted that the alleged offence is punishable under Section 17 of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, which prohibits the unlawful handling, transportation and distribution of petroleum products.
The NSCDC Commandant reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to combating pipeline vandalism, petroleum-related crimes and other forms of economic sabotage, warning that perpetrators would face the full weight of the law.
He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspects’ activities, identify other members of the alleged syndicate and ensure that everyone connected to the operation is brought to justice.
Olatunde further assured residents that the Anambra State Command would continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations, proactive security strategies and inter-agency collaboration to protect critical infrastructure and maintain public safety.
He also appreciated the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and members of the public for their cooperation in the fight against crime.
The Commandant urged residents to continue providing credible and timely intelligence that would assist security agencies in tackling criminal activities across the state.
