Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Brigade have intercepted individuals allegedly involved in siphoning diesel from heavy-duty equipment belonging to Sterling Petroleum and Fertiliser Limited in Ukpe Ete, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
This was contained in a statement by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Capt. Lawal Bala Muhammad, and shared on the Nigerian Army’s Facebook page on Saturday.
According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected criminals targeting the company’s assets.
It was gathered that the troops subsequently launched a follow-up operation, leading to the arrest of a driver said to be conveying the siphoned products.
However, tensions escalated as soldiers attempted to return the suspect and recovered items to the company for further interrogation.
Youths in the community reportedly barricaded the road in an effort to free the suspect and seized exhibits, pelting troops with bottles and stones. Despite efforts by the soldiers to de-escalate the situation, including firing warning shots, the crowd became increasingly violent.
The Army stated that a suspected ringleader of the group was identified and shot in the leg during the confrontation.
He was later taken to a hospital for treatment.
The unrest reportedly intensified, with some youths vandalising private vehicles, harassing commuters, and attacking company trucks along the route.
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The statement further disclosed that reinforcements were later deployed from the Brigade to restore order.
During subsequent operations in the area, security personnel discovered an unidentified body lying beside a coffin.
The remains were evacuated to a mortuary by the Nigeria Police Force, supported by the troops.
Military authorities say troops are currently maintaining a strong presence in the area to safeguard the company’s facilities and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The Brigade commended members of the public for their cooperation and reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
It also urged residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies as investigations into the incident continue.
