Army Detains Soldiers Involved in Theft at Dangote Refinery

• Nigerian Army orders arrest of two soldiers implicated in theft at Dangote Refinery, assures transparent investigation and legal consequences
• Major Gen. Nwachukwu expressed concern over the incident, confirmed soldiers were in custody, and collaborated with Dangote Refinery for a thorough inquiry

The Nigerian Army has taken decisive action by ordering the arrest of two soldiers allegedly implicated in the theft of armoured cables at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos.

Assuring a transparent investigation, Major Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, stated on Wednesday that if the soldiers are found guilty after due process, they will face legal consequences.

In a statement titled ‘Alleged Involvement of Soldiers in Theft at Dangote Refinery,’ Gen. Nwachukwu expressed deep concern over the reported incident, emphasizing that such criminal behaviour contradicts the values and standards of the Nigerian Army.

The statement disclosed that the apprehended soldiers are currently in custody, with initial findings indicating their alleged collaboration with a civilian contractor named Mr. Smart. The contractor purportedly engaged the soldiers to retrieve armoured cables left on the refinery premises, only to abandon them when confronted by security personnel.

Further investigations are underway to ascertain the extent of the soldiers’ involvement, with the recovered stolen cables securely held as evidence. Collaboration with Dangote Refinery management ensures a thorough inquiry into the matter.

The Nigerian Army reiterates its commitment to upholding discipline and integrity within its ranks, promising appropriate disciplinary action against any personnel involved in criminal activities. Emphasizing accountability and ethical conduct, the Army pledges maintaining its standards and values in pursuing justice.