By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Army (NA) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo in Port Harcourt, contrary to claims made by Sahara Reporters.
In a swift response to allegations circulating on social media, the Acting Deputy Director 6 Division NA, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma asserts that Soyombo’s arrest is connected to his alleged involvement with a notorious gang of oil thieves operating in the region.
According to a statement released by the Headquarters, 6 Division, the journalist was arrested at an illegal oil bunkering site during a deliberate operation conducted by troops.
“You will recall that the Division has scaled up its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations with huge operational successes recorded.
“Only recently, intelligence revealed the existence of a notorious gang of oil thieves noted for bursting pipelines and illegal connections for oil theft in the region.
“In a deliberate operation conducted, troops trailed the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. In a subsequent operation carried out, troops swooped on the site, where arrests were made, including one Fisayo Soyombo who was also arrested at the scene,” Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma explained.
He said, the Army had been tracking the gang, known for bursting pipelines and illegal connections for oil theft, and Soyombo was found to be among those arrested at the scene.
The Acting Deputy Director emphasized that Soyombo’s arrest is not a case of detention, but rather a lawful apprehension in connection with his alleged involvement in illegal activities.
The suspects, including Soyombo, are currently undergoing preliminary investigation to ascertain their level of involvement.
The statement reassured the commitment of the Division to continue to combat criminal gangs, particularly oil thieves, in the region to boost oil and gas production in the country.
In a call to action, the Army has urged media outlets to verify the accuracy of their information before sharing it with the public.
This appeal comes amidst concerns about the spread of misinformation and the potential harm it can cause, Enugu Reporters noted.
