Soyombo Was Arrested At Oil Bunkering Site – Army

The Nigerian Army has explained that why it arrested Fisayo Soyombo, founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).

Osun Defender recalls that on Friday, FIJ reported that Soyombo has been arrested and detained by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt for three days.

Confirming Soyombo’s arrest in a statement on Friday, the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, explained that Fisayo Soyombo was arrested at an illegal oil bunkering site.

Danjuma explained that the operation leading to Soyombo’s detention followed intelligence regarding a notorious gang of oil thieves involved in pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections in the region.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Army Arrests, Detains Investigative Journalist, Fisayo Soyombo

Danjuma stated that the suspects arrested at the site, including Soyombo, are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their level of involvement.

“You will recall that the Division has intensified its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations, achieving significant operational successes,” Danjuma said.

“Recently, intelligence revealed the presence of a notorious gang of oil thieves known for pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections. In a targeted operation, troops traced the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. During the operation, arrests were made, including that of Fisayo Soyombo, who was also detained at the scene.”

“The suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to assess their involvement. Therefore, Soyombo’s arrest is linked to the activities of these oil thieves in the region. It is important for media outlets to ensure the accuracy of the information they publish,” he added.

“The Division reassures the public of its commitment to curbing criminal activities, particularly oil theft, in the region, which will ultimately help increase oil and gas production in the country,” Danjuma concluded.