Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, has arrested a truck driver for allegedly attempting to run over its operatives while trying to evade arrest during an operation targeting the illegal transportation of suspected adulterated petroleum products in Onitsha. The incident occurred at about 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Amansea along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka, according to the NSCDC Anambra State Command. The suspect, identified as Sunday Ukeh, 46, from Odume in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, is currently in the custody of the corps while investigations continue.
According to a statement issued by Superintendent Corps Edwin Okadigbo, Head of Media and Tactical Operations, the operation was carried out by the Command's Anti-Vandalism Squad led by Chief Superintendent of Corps Christian Nwosu following intelligence on suspected illegal petroleum racketeering. The NSCDC said operatives flagged down the truck for inspection after receiving intelligence that it was transporting suspected adulterated petroleum products. However, instead of complying, the driver allegedly accelerated towards the officers in an attempt to force his way through. "The driver attempted to run over members of the Anti-Vandalism Squad," the command said, adding that the operatives immediately pursued the truck and intercepted it at the Military Checkpoint in Amansea.
The corps further alleged that while officers were trying to arrest him, the suspect physically assaulted one of the operatives before he was eventually subdued and taken into custody. The NSCDC said preliminary checks on the truck's documentation uncovered significant discrepancies in the waybill, particularly regarding the source and intended destination of the petroleum product. As a result, the truck and its cargo of approximately 45,000 litres of suspected adulterated Premium Motor Spirit were impounded pending the conclusion of investigations. Authorities stressed that the product is only suspected to be adulterated at this stage, and investigations are ongoing to determine its authenticity and origin.
In a separate operation, the NSCDC also arrested another suspect, Jonas Nwokpoko, 52, from Izzi South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, along with an accomplice, Chinweze Iloh, 28, from Omor in Ayamelum Local Government Area. That incident occurred along Borromeo Road, near Limca Road, Onitsha, when operatives of the Command's Anti-Vandalism Squad, acting on credible intelligence, stopped a truck conveying about 4,000 litres of suspected adulterated Automotive Gas Oil, also known as diesel. According to State Commandant Maku Olatunde, the driver allegedly attempted to crush the officers with the vehicle in a desperate bid to escape but was overpowered and arrested.
Olatunde said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are linked to a syndicate allegedly involved in the illegal sale and transportation of adulterated petroleum products. He explained that the suspects failed to produce valid licences and other statutory documents required under the Petroleum Industry Act for the purchase, sale and movement of petroleum products, leading to the seizure of the truck and its contents. According to him, the alleged attempt to attack NSCDC personnel underscores the desperation of those engaged in economic sabotage.
Speaking on the development, Commandant Maku Olatunde commended members of the Anti-Vandalism Squad for what he described as their professionalism and courage during the operation. He warned members of the public against obstructing or attacking law enforcement officers carrying out lawful duties. "Anyone found attacking personnel of the Corps while on legitimate duty will face the full weight of the law, irrespective of status," he said. The Commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC's commitment to protecting critical national assets and combating illegal petroleum dealings across Anambra State. He said investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the criminal network and ensure everyone connected to the alleged offences is brought to justice.
The NSCDC said the command would not tolerate any form of lawlessness or attacks on its personnel while carrying out their lawful duties. "The Command categorically states that any person or group of persons who attack its personnel on lawful duty will face the full weight of the law," the statement read. The State Commandant praised the Anti-Vandalism Squad for their vigilance and professionalism and restated the Command's commitment to sustaining the fight against illegal activities in the petroleum sector in Anambra State. Olatunde also urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against economic sabotage and other criminal activities.
The arrests come amid heightened efforts by security agencies to curb the illegal petroleum trade in Anambra State, a major commercial hub where adulterated products have become a persistent challenge. The NSCDC has intensified intelligence-led operations across the state, targeting syndicates involved in the adulteration, diversion, and illegal transportation of petroleum products. The command has warned that those engaged in such activities will face the full wrath of the law, as the government continues to prioritise the protection of critical national assets and the safety of citizens. As investigations continue, both suspects remain in custody pending possible prosecution, with the NSCDC vowing to ensure that justice is served and that the fight against economic sabotage in the petroleum sector remains unwavering.
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