NSCDC Arrests Driver In Anambra Over Alleged Attempt To Run Over Officers

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has arrested a truck driver for allegedly attempting to run over its operatives while trying to evade arrest during an operation targeting the illegal transportation of suspected adulterated petroleum products in Onitsha.

The command said the suspect was intercepted with a truck conveying about four thousand litres of suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil, AGO, also known as diesel.

According to the State Commandant, Maku Olatunde, the incident occurred along Borromeo Road, near Limca Road, Onitsha, when operatives of the Command’s Anti-Vandalism Squad, acting on credible intelligence, stopped the truck for routine inspection.

He said the driver allegedly attempted to crush the officers with the vehicle in a desperate bid to escape but was overpowered and arrested. Another suspect, Chinweze Iloh, 28, from Omor in Ayamelum Local Government Area, was also apprehended, while the driver was identified as Jonas Nwokpoko, 52, from Izzi South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Olatunde said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are linked to a syndicate allegedly involved in the illegal sale and transportation of adulterated petroleum products.

He explained that the suspects failed to produce valid licences and other statutory documents required under the Petroleum Industry Act for the purchase, sale and movement of petroleum products, leading to the seizure of the truck and its contents.

According to him, the alleged attempt to attack NSCDC personnel underscores the desperation of those engaged in economic sabotage.

The Commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and combating illegal petroleum dealings across Anambra State.

He said investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the criminal network and ensure everyone connected to the alleged offences is brought to justice. Olatunde also urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against economic sabotage and other criminal activities.