Yenagoa: The Police Command in Bayelsa has issued a stern warning to economic saboteurs targeting the blue economy, emphasizing its commitment to using every legal means to protect Nigeria’s economic interests. The Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa, Mr. Francis Alonyenu, made this announcement during an interview in Yenagoa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Alonyenu highlighted Bayelsa’s crucial role in Nigeria’s blue economy and stressed the command’s readiness to maintain peace and order. With its abundant maritime, petroleum, and gas resources, the Nigeria Police Force is determined to ensure these assets are utilized effectively for the benefit of both the state and the nation.
The commissioner noted that the police command had significantly reduced the crime rate through the use of surveillance drones, enhancing the policing of the state and its maritime environment. This has allowed individuals and businesses to operate without fear of disruption. Alonyenu attributed the command’s success to crime
mapping, which helped identify motivations behind pipeline attacks and devise strategies to address these challenges.
With the containment of economic saboteurs’ activities in Bayelsa’s waters, the command is now conducting clearance operations to maintain security. Alonyenu assured the public of their ongoing commitment to preserving the current state of order.
Bayelsa, a key oil-producing state in Nigeria, boasts a complex network of pipelines both on land and sea. In recent times, these critical facilities have been the target of economic saboteurs attempting to breach pipelines and divert crude oil. Nigeria faces significant losses due to oil theft and pipeline vandalism, with an estimated 300,000 barrels of crude oil stolen daily. This has resulted in annual revenue losses estimated at N1.29 trillion, as noted by Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives, during the inauguration of the New Headquarters, Naval Training Command in Rivers State.