By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) recorded a reduction in the rate of oil theft and pipeline vandalism during the yuletide season in Rivers State.
This was made known by the NSCDC Commandant in Rivers State, Mr Muktar Lawal, who noted that this occurred as a result of measures put in place by the corps.
In a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Micheal Oguntuase, he said the anti-vandal team of the corps has been on 24/7 security checks on pipelines and other oil installations within the state.
He assured that the internal security agency would not rest on its oars in ensuring an end to all forms of economic sabotage and civil unrest.
He then urged the people of Rivers State to report any suspicious movements or activities around them to the nearest security post for a prompt response.
“The reduction in the rate of vandalism of the critical national assets and infrastructure witness during the yuletide season across the state and its environs was not unconnected with the proactive measures put in place by the Command and the strong synergy and collaborative efforts of other security agencies.
“We are committed to ensuring the state is rid of every form of economic wastage and sabotage as well as all forms of civil unrest, stating that the command will leave no stone unturned to ensure residents in the state sleep with their two eyes closed.
“The anti-vandal team of the command has since been on 24/7 security checks on pipelines and other oil installations within the state.
“The Peace and Conflict Resolutions Unit and Agro Rangers Team of the Command have commenced rigorous peace campaigns within the state encouraging residents to report all civil matters such as landed issues, indebtedness, marital etc, to the Command for prompt redress to prevent escalating into a serious breach of law and order.”
NSCDC also stated its commitment to not relenting in taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of lives and property of residents as well as the critical national assets and infrastructure in the state.
The corps also urged residents to adhere to all COVID19 protocols including wearing of nose masks in public places and crowded areas, to curtail the spread of the pandemic.
“On a final note, residents in the state are advised to restrain from the indiscriminate use of firecrackers within residential areas, warning that the command will not spare any youth caught using such to cause mayhem to peace-loving people of Rivers state,” the statement said.
Modupe Gbadeyanka