Two soldiers from the Nigerian Army have been detained for allegedly stealing armoured cables at the Dangote Refinery, Army officials disclosed Wednesday.
The soldiers were caught at the main gate attempting to leave the facility in an Acura jeep after perpetrating the act. They were found in possession of 897 armoured cables that had been cut to size.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who is Director of Army Public Relations, said the incident was “totally unacceptable and highly regrettable” in a statement issued on April 17.
“The Nigerian Army is deeply concerned about the alleged involvement of two of its personnel in a reported case of theft at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos,” he said.
“This act of criminality, which was prevented by the proactive intervention of vigilant troops and private security operatives on duty at the refinery, is totally unacceptable and highly regrettable.
“It does not, therefore, represent the ethics and values of the NA. The two suspects have been identified and are currently under custody,” he added.
Nwachukwu explained that the soldiers were hired by a civilian contractor named Smart, who had allegedly informed them that he needed to recover some cables left at the facility.
However, upon arriving the facility, Smart sensed some trouble, excused himself, and disappeared from the site, leaving the soldiers to their fate.
Nwachukwu said investigations were ongoing to determine the soldiers’ involvement in the crime.
His words:
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the two suspects were hired by a civilian contractor simply identified as Mr Smart, who claimed he wanted to recover some armoured cables he had 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 away, 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.
“The NA wishes to reassure the general public that appropriate disciplinary measures would be meted out to the culprits, as no act of criminality will be condoned amongst its personnel.
Nwachukwu restated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to instilling discipline, integrity, dedication, and accountability among its personnel.