PINL warns contractors, tightens security after foiled oil theft attempts

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, has issued a warning to its surveillance contractors and guards following recent attempts at crude theft along the Trans Niger Pipeline, TNP, and Eastern Gas Network, EGN, corridors in Rivers and Bayelsa States.

The warning follows the interception of two tankers at Atali axis, Zone 4, an operation foiled only by PINL’s backup intelligence system. Preliminary investigations suggest a possible coordinated conspiracy involving insiders.

PINL, issued the warning at its March stakeholders meeting with host communities and contractors in Port Harcourt, stating that acts of collusion, sabotage or negligence will not be tolerated.

Dr. Akpos Mezeh, General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Relations, addressed those present directly

“Recently, at Atali axis, Zone 4, two tankers were intercepted while attempting to load crude. It was only through the effectiveness of our backup intelligence system that this operation was foiled; otherwise, those trucks would have successfully loaded.

“Preliminary findings point to a possible coordinated conspiracy. Once investigations are concluded, everyone found culpable will be brought to justice. No one will be spared.”

“Let this serve as a clear and firm warning to all contractors and operatives that any act of negligence, compromise, or collusion will not be tolerated. Any contractor found wanting will not only lose their contract but also face full prosecution under the law.”

Also, Engr. Akponime Omojevwhe, Head of Field Operations, Eastern Corridor, NNPCL Project Monitoring Office, underscored the critical role of host communities, noting that 90 percent of PINL contractors and 100 percent of surveillance workers are drawn locally.

He cautioned contractors to conduct thorough due diligence when recruiting guards: “Before engaging the guards, thoroughly do your due diligence so that they will not spoil the name of the community.”

Omojevwhe also said contractors in Atali and Egbeda Communities would face non-performance certificates if negligence allowed sabotage of pipelines.

On a positive note, traditional leaders commended PINL for environmental recovery. Eze Ekpeye-Logbo, King Kevin Anugwo, represented by Ada Ekpeye-Logbo, Dr Patricia Ogbonnaya, commended PINL for restoring the local environment and ecosystem.

“Fish species that disappeared during peak oil bunkering and pollution are now returning. We call on the Federal Government to increase support for PINL.”

The meeting highlighted the dual challenge for PINL: protecting critical energy infrastructure while fostering trust and development in host communities.