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The Nigerian Army has arrested two soldiers for alleged involvement in the stealing of armoured cable at Dangote refinery in Lagos
Army spokesperson, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, April 17.
Nwachukwu said the army was “deeply concerned” about the incident, but the criminal act of the two soldiers was “totally unacceptable and highly regrettable, does not, therefore, represent the ethics and values of the Nigerian Army.”
He said: “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.”
Nwachukwu said the army was working closely with the management of the Dangote Refinery to ensure a thorough investigation into this unfortunate incident.
He assured the public that appropriate disciplinary measures would be meted out to the culprits, adding that no act of criminality would be condoned amongst its personnel.
He said: “The Nigerian Army 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.”
