Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abia State command has arrested 52 suspected dealers on adulterated diesel and shutdown over 30 shops in and around the motor park section of Ama Hausa Market, Aba.
This came barely four days after the command paraded two suspected oil thieves and pipeline vandals who were arrested at Owaza in Ukwa West local government.
Addressing newsmen after parading and conducting newsmen around the shops, yesterday, the commandant, Usman Alfadarai, described the suspects as economic saboteurs to the country.
“The act of oil-theft and illegal refining of petroleum products in the country is a syndicate work and we’re bent on dislodging the syndicate for the peace and security of the country,” he noted.
He said six of the vehicles parked at the park had been identified to be fully loaded with the products ready for distribution to different parts of the country.
The commandant said the corps is not only concerned that the suspects are dealing in adulterated products, but is also worried about the volume of the product in the shops and the danger.
“The volume of the product poses great danger to the thousands of people who converge daily in the market for different business activities and the surrounding environment.
“Right now, because of safety concerns, activities in the section have been suspended because we cannot allow the people to endanger their lives. Any spark of fire here can engulf the entire market and the environment,” he said.
He said investigation of the suspects will commence immediately, assuring that while those unconcerned will be released, the culpable will be brought to book to serve as deterrent to others.
Speaking to LEADERSHIP Friday, some of the suspects, Musa Ladan, Adaku Uju, and Greg Ibekwe denied involvement in the activities, claiming to have been at the park for legitimate business.
