Two Arrested Following Explosion on Trans-Niger Pipeline in Rivers State
The Rivers State Police have arrested two individuals in relation to an explosion on the Trans Niger Delta Pipeline operated by Shell. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause, including the possibility of sabotage. The fire resulting from the blast has been extinguished, and authorities are committed to preventing future incidents.
The Rivers State Police Command has reported the arrest of two individuals linked to an explosive incident on the Shell Petroleum Development Company-operated Trans Niger Delta Pipeline. The explosion occurred on a Monday night, igniting a significant fire in the mangrove region, which has since been extinguished to avoid further environmental damage.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the explosion, which resulted in a substantial inferno. The police are investigating all possibilities, including the potential for sabotage. “The Rivers State Police Command is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, and two individuals have been taken into custody for questioning,” Iringe-Koko stated.
Security personnel, who observed the explosion during a routine patrol, promptly notified Shell, leading to the implementation of immediate safety measures, including the shutdown of the affected pipeline. Iringe-Koko emphasized, “Thanks to the swift action of both security forces and Shell, the situation was brought under control. There is no longer any threat to the residents or the environment.”
Online videos depict the aftermath of the explosion, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky as flames engulfed the mangroves. Distressed local residents were observed near the site, monitoring the damage and assisting authorities in managing the situation. The precise cause of the explosion remains ambiguous, as Minister of Regional Affairs Abubakar Momoh stated, “At this moment, we have not gathered all the facts surrounding the explosion. However, we are fully committed to uncovering the truth, and the investigation continues.”
Authorities are thoroughly examining the circumstances surrounding the explosion, including sabotage, and prioritize safety concerning the Trans-Niger Pipeline’s infrastructure. This incident underscores the vulnerability of the region’s oil facilities, previously targeted in similar attacks. As the investigation advances, local and federal bodies remain dedicated to revealing the truth and seeking justice for those impacted by this incident.
In summary, the Rivers State Police Command has arrested two individuals in connection with the explosion on the Trans Niger Delta Pipeline, with ongoing investigations exploring all possible causes, including sabotage. The swift response by security forces and Shell Petroleum Development Company helped control the incident, preventing further environmental damage. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances of the explosion and ensure the safety of the region’s oil infrastructure in the future.
Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com
