The Rivers state command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps have arrested 23 suspected oil thieves and seized a vessel, including 20 vehicles used in conveying stolen petroleum products.

The state commandant of the NSCDC Muktar Lawal said the suspects were apprehended in various parts of the state.

Speaking with newsmen in Port Harcourt, the commandant explained that seven of the suspects were handed over to the command by the Navy, as others were arrested by operatives of the state command.

Lawal added that 12 persons involved in illegal oil refining were also arrested during a joint operation with personnel of Operation Delta Safe at Ibelebiri community.

According to the commandant, one motorcycle, a Toyota Camry and Almera car were handed over to the corps for further investigation and possible prosecution of the owners.

The commandant, however, expressed optimism that oil theft in the state would drastically reduce with the measures put in place by the command.