The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested two suspects for stealing crude oil in Abia State.

The suspects, Chukwuekpe Okeke (40 years old) and Kingsley Madubuachi Conelius (31 years old), were caught siphoning oil from a damaged pipeline at Umuhololo/Etitiuzor Road, Owaza in Ukwa-West Local Government Area.

The arrest was made by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad on February 14, 2025, following a tip-off from concerned citizens.

The squad discovered a large storage of stolen crude oil hidden in the forest. The thieves had tampered with the pipeline and connected hoses to direct the oil into underground pits, where it was stored in plastic bags.

During the operation, security officials recovered several tools used for the crime, including plastic buckets, valves, and hoses. Other items found at the scene included slippers left behind by escaping suspects, a Tecno button phone, and a black motorcycle.

The arrested suspects admitted their roles in the crime and are currently under investigation. The NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, praised members of the public who provided useful information.

He urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies in the fight against oil theft and other crimes.

Oil theft remains a major challenge in Nigeria, affecting the economy and damaging the environment. The NSCDC has promised to intensify efforts to stop such illegal activities.