The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Rivers Command said it had arrested more than 2000 persons for alleged oil pipeline vandalism and other crimes between January and December.
The command’s spokesman, Oguntuase Michael, a Chief Superintendent of Corps, said on Thursday that out of the figure, 44 had been convicted.
He said others were being tried in court.
He warned the youth to shun pipeline vandalism as according to him, the pipelines were being heavily guarded 24 hours.
He also advised them to engage in legitimate activities to earn a living.
He said, “They should not go near any pipeline as the pipelines are heavily guarded 24 hours by the Corps.”
Michael disclosed that more than 6000 Corps had been deployed to flash points in different locations in the state.
He said the objective was to nip pipeline vandalism among other criminal activities in the bud, especially during the Christmas festivities.
He recalled that the command had embarked on a sensitisation campaign in the State, especially in Omoku and Ahoada areas to educate the youth on the consequences of indulging in crime.
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