Police Arrest Four Over Vandalism Of Seplat Facility In Akwa Ibom
Police Arrest Suspects Over Oil Facility Vandalism
OPERATIVES of the Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have arrested four suspects allegedly involved in the vandalism of a facility belonging to Seplat Energy in Ibeno Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, disclosed the arrests in a statement issued on Sunday in Uyo.
According to the statement, the police received a distress call from the company’s security control room on 11 March at about noon, reporting that a group of youths had vandalised the company’s signpost and attempted to forcefully access the facility.
Police Respond to Distress Call
John said the group, allegedly led by a youth leader, had maliciously pulled down and destroyed the company’s signpost before attempting to gain entry into the premises.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Azare, directed operatives to immediately mobilise to the location.
“Upon arrival, the operatives discovered that the company’s signpost had already been forcefully pulled down and destroyed,” the police spokesperson said.
She added that the suspects were allegedly part of a larger group of about 25 individuals who attempted to disrupt police operations.
Four Arrested, Others on the Run
According to the police, the suspected vandals violently resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct officers from carrying out their duties.
However, through what the command described as a coordinated tactical response, police operatives succeeded in arresting four suspects at the scene.
John said surveillance teams had since launched a manhunt for the suspected ring leader and other members of the group who fled during the operation.
Efforts, she added, are ongoing to ensure that all those involved are apprehended and brought to justice.
Police Condemn Vandalism
The police command condemned the attack on the oil facility, describing it as criminal intimidation directed at corporate investments in the state.
John warned that individuals or groups must refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
She urged members of the public, particularly youth groups, to channel grievances or disputes through lawful and peaceful means.
“Any person or group found engaging in acts of vandalism, violence or sabotage will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” she said.
Commitment to Protect Investments
The police reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property, including investments made by companies operating within the state.
According to the command, ensuring a secure environment for lawful businesses remains a key priority for security agencies in Akwa Ibom.
