By Desmond Ejibas
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Rivers has secured 21 convictions within six months out of 37 cases before various courts in the state.
Mr Michael Ogar, the state Commandant, made the disclosure in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Olufemi Ayodele, in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
According to the statement, Ogar gave the figure while addressing participants of Course 31 of National Defence College (NDC) who visited the command headquarters in Port Harcourt.
“The command is actively carrying its mandate of effective protection of all critical national assets and infrastructures in Rivers.
“On my assumption of duty in July, we went all out to effect series of arrests of suspects involved in oil theft, illegal dealing in petroleum products and other criminal offences.
“In a short period, our renewed efforts led to the arrest of 88 suspects for various offences – with 37 cases charged to court and the command securing 21 convictions,” Ogar said.
He also said that the command had from the beginning of the year successfully secured about 34 forfeitures, including petroleum products and sea vessels to the Federal Government.
“The command under my watch will not relent in stemming the spate of crimes and criminalities in Rivers.
“The focus of NDC Course 31 participants on the topic: Building Socio-Economic Resilience in a Contemporary Security Environment is an indication that security is key for businesses to thrive.
“So, the current peace in Rivers is as a result of the existing harmonious relationship between security agencies and other critical stakeholders in the state,” he added. (NAN)
