The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of two soldiers allegedly involved in a cable theft incident at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos.
This development follows a recent incident where a food vendor, Rashidat Saadu, was struck by a stray bullet from a security personnel at the same refinery, prompting compensation from the Dangote Group of Companies.
According to reports, the arrested soldiers, along with a civilian accomplice who managed to escape, were intercepted in their operational vehicle by members of a vigilante group and private security operatives as they attempted to leave the refinery premises.
In response to the situation, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, stated that preliminary investigations revealed the involvement of the two suspects, who were allegedly hired by a civilian contractor known as Mr. Smart.
In Onyema’s words;
“This act of criminality, which was prevented by the proactive intervention of vigilant troops and private security operatives on duty at the refinery. It is totally unacceptable and highly regrettable. It does not, therefore, represent the ethics and values of the NA.
“ Preliminary investigation reveals that the suspects were hired by a civilian contractor simply identified as Smart, who claimed he wanted to recover some Armoured cables he left behind on the refinery’s premises. Unknown to the soldiers, the said contractor, sensing trouble as they approached the security post, excused himself from the vehicle and bolted, leaving them behind.
“Further investigations are ongoing to fully ascertain the depth of culpability of the apprehended soldiers. Additionally, the stolen cables have been recovered and are in safe custody. The NA is working closely with the management of the Dangote Refinery to ensure a thorough investigation into this unfortunate incident.”
