The Plateau State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has taken into custody five individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal diversion of two trucks loaded with a total of 70 metric tons of Indorama fertilizer.Â
This was disclosed to the press on Monday in Jos by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC Ruth Rimvyok.
Rimvyok explained that the arrests were made following a tip-off received from intelligence sources.
The suspects were apprehended in the Mararaban Jama’a area, located in Jos South Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.
The fertilizers, which were intended for delivery to Lagos and Oyo States, were allegedly being diverted to Bauchi State.
She revealed that the swift action was a result of coordinated efforts between the command and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The arrests took place on August 21 and 23, respectively.
The two trucks seized were loaded with 35 metric tons each of government-issued Indorama fertilizer, which was supposed to be delivered to Lagos and Oyo States.
Rimvyok added that investigations were ongoing to uncover the individuals or network behind this alleged diversion of essential agricultural products.
The NSCDC is committed to ensuring that the matter is thoroughly investigated and that those responsible for such unlawful activities are brought to justice.
One of the arrested suspects, Abubakar Mohammed, however, denied any wrongdoing. He insisted that they were instructed to transport the fertilizers to Bauchi State, claiming they had no knowledge of any diversion. The authorities are looking into all claims as part of their ongoing investigation.
The NSCDC reassures the public that efforts are being intensified to prevent further illegal diversions and to ensure that resources allocated for national development reach their intended destinations.
