Investigations have revealed that despite the federal government effort to shore up the economy of the nation, some persons are bent on sabotaging it.
For instance it was not only discovered that Ogu/Bolo, Andoni and Degema local government areas of Rivers state harbour over 75 illegal local refineries, but the military personnel posted to monitor the waterfronts now allegedly collaborate with criminals on the illegal activities to make brisk business to the detriment of the nation’s economy.
It was further discovered that the illegal business of burning the crude oil and getting diesel, kerosene and fuel, known locally as “Kpo Fire”, provides employment for the idle youths, chiefs and community leaders around the affected communities.
The illegal business has also claimed lives of many operators.
The irony is that the military officers who are supposed to guard the areas and arrest the criminals not only provide cover for them as alleged by sources, but consult the buyers and as well escort the stock to its destination for a fee ranging from N100,000 to N200,000 per trip.
In the course of our investigation, it was also discovered that the illegal bunkering activities have also affected the aquatic life of the communities involved as the water is constantly polluted.
However, some Community Development Committee Chairmen of the areas contacted, advised that Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi should set up a special task force to dismantle, arrest and prosecute this cartel. ###
Alapakabia Tobin
