The Nigerian Army has revealed that Fisayo Soyombo is under investigation in connection with oil theft activities in the Niger Delta.
This development follows reports suggesting that the renowned investigative journalist was detained by military forces in Port Harcourt.
In an official statement on Friday, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Division, confirmed that Soyombo was among several individuals apprehended during a crackdown on oil theft operations.
The Army did not clarify whether the arrested individual is the same as the well-known journalist or someone with a similar name.
Army’s Anti-Oil Theft Operations
The Army highlighted its ongoing success in combating illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta, a region plagued by pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.
Danjuma disclosed that intelligence reports identified a notorious gang involved in these criminal activities, prompting the Army to launch a targeted operation.
The operation uncovered an illegal bunkering site, where multiple arrests were made, including that of Fisayo Soyombo.
Speaking on the incident, Danjuma stated:
> “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.
Troops trailed the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site, leading to arrests, including one Fisayo Soyombo.”
Ongoing Investigations
The Nigerian Army emphasized that all suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their involvement in the oil theft network.
While Soyombo’s arrest has raised questions, the Army refrained from providing additional details about his specific role in the case.
The military also cautioned media outlets against spreading unverified information, urging journalists to prioritize accuracy in their reporting.
> “It is important for media outlets to ensure the veracity of their information before publishing.
The Division remains committed to curbing criminal activities in the Niger Delta, particularly oil theft, to boost the country’s oil and gas production.”
Public Assurance
The Army reassured Nigerians of its dedication to tackling illegal activities that threaten the nation’s economy.
It reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating criminal gangs involved in oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which have significantly affected Nigeria’s crude oil output.
As investigations continue, the public awaits clarification on whether the detained individual is indeed the investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo or a namesake.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for updates on this developing story.
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