NSCDC Busts Illegal Diesel Refining Site in Kano

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Command, has uncovered an illegal diesel refining site at Panisau in Ungoggo Local Government Area of the state, arresting five suspects.

The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Bello, 28; Musbahu Adam, 38; Rabiu Dahiru, 27; Haruna Kabiru, 26; and Sunusi Ahmad, 25, were arrested over their alleged involvement in operating an unregistered oil and gas business.

The operation was carried out by personnel from the Command’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Department, Oil and Gas Unit, Armed Squad and Anti-Vandalism Unit.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, said the operation was part of efforts to combat economic sabotage, protect the environment and enforce regulations governing oil and gas activities.

He said the operation aimed to strengthen the fight against illegal activities, adding that the refining site had been sealed off while investigations continued.

According to the statement, the Command was working to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged activities and determine appropriate legal action against the suspects.

The NSCDC warned that illegal refining activities “pose serious threats to public safety and the environment,” citing pollution, environmental degradation and other potential hazards.

The statement added that such activities “undermine legitimate economic operations and threaten the nation’s economic interests.”