By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Rivers State Command, has provided an update on the reported incident at Jetty Creeks, Okrika local government area of Rivers State, where some persons were allegedly involved in an attempt to scoop or recover petroleum products.
The NSCDC in a statement signed by Chief Superintendent Olufemi Ayodele,
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NSCDC Rivers State Command on Saturday, stated that its investigation revealed that only four persons died.
It said: Following the incident, an undercover team of the NSCDC Rivers State Command conducted further assessment and surveillance of the affected area and was able to sight four (4) corpses believed to be connected to the incident. The development has, however, necessitated further verification of the identities of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
“One of the victims earlier identified was TARIBO Levia, whose remains have reportedly been buried according to the traditional customs of the community. Other deceased persons reportedly sighted include Ogoloma Tamunoene Fred, Amiso, and Belema Siyerminma from Ngabiri.”
The Command noted that the initial casualty figures circulating in the aftermath of the incident were not fully verified and may have been overstated. “The Command is therefore relying on information obtained through its ongoing field assessment and investigation to establish the actual number of victims,” the statement read.
The agency stated that security agencies have been providing security around the area. “It is also important to clarify that security agencies, including the Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) Joint Task Force, have been providing security coverage around the facility.
“However, the location where the incident occurred is considerably distant from the Joint Task Force’s designated Area of Responsibility (AOR), which is relevant to understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement further read.
The NSCDC noted that it has commenced further investigation and information gathering in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to establish the immediate and remote causes of the incident, so as to ascertain the identities of all victims and determine whether any persons remain unaccounted for.
The Command also warned members of the public against vandalism, illegal tampering with petroleum infrastructure, unauthorised access to oil facilities and the dangerous practice of scooping petroleum products. “Such activities are not only criminal but can result in fatalities, serious injuries and environmental damage.
“We remain committed to protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure in Rivers State and will continue to work with sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property,” the agency stated.
