File Photo: oil thieving suspects arrested in Lagos

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Friday said it has arrested a police officer and seven others suspected to have 12,400 litres  of petroleum products. The fuel was stored in 25 kegs.

The Lagos State Commandant of the corps, Mr Gabriel Abafi, made the disclosure while speaking with journalists.

Abafi said that eight suspects, including a police officer, identified as Achidika, an assistant superintendent of police,   were arrested by a team of the Anti-Vandal Unit of NSCDC at about 2 a.m. on Dec. 2.  The police officer is attached to the SARS office in Badagry, west of Lagos.

“The suspects were caught around Badagry axis after a tip off that they were loading the products from Badagry to Cotonou. On getting there, we arrested the boat,’’ he said.

“It will surprise you to know that among the sea pirates that were arrested happened to be a police officer who we are still investigating.

“The officer who happens to be among the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) is still under investigation will be revealed after we conclude investigation.

“It was during the exchange of gun fire between the officials of the corps and the suspects that they were wounded, including the police officer.

“We immediately rushed the wounded suspects to the hospital because we want them alive not dead,’’ he said.

Abafi said that an AK-47 and a pistol were recovered from the suspects, adding that the AK-47 had the emblem of the Nigerian Police.

“The gun had police written on it and no junior police officer can handle such guns,’’ he said.

Apart from the police officer, the other  suspects were identified as Jimoh Olusegun, Bederaa Isaac, Fashawo Kobla. Others are Akapo Joseph, Amos Bakom, and two other suspects who could not talk due to injuries.

Abafi advised youths and people who were still involved in any form of illegalities to desist and find a legitimate business to do or face the wrath of the law if caught.