Nigerian Army confirms arrest of soldiers over alleged involvement in cable theft at Dangote Refinery

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of two soldiers for their alleged involvement in the theft of armoured cables at Dangote Refinery in Lagos State. 

Director Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, who made this known in a statement on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, described the incident as “totally unacceptable and highly regrettable”

Nwachukwu said that the suspects are currently under custody and will be 

“The Nigerian Army (NA) is deeply concerned about the alleged involvement of two of its personnel in a reported case of theft at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos,” the statement read.

“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.

“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, 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.

“The NA remains steadfast in ensuring that the key values of discipline and integrity are adequately entrenched amongst its personnel. We shall also continue to cultivate and promote dedication and a culture of accountability and ethical behaviours within our ranks.”