…Police Arrest Two For Questioning
An explosion has rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP) at Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The explosion occurred late on Monday night (March 17) near the Bodo-Bonny Road under construction.
Thick black smoke was seen billowing into the atmosphere, with a raging fire spreading fast into the mangrove from a video that emerged this Tuesday morning.
The affected section of the major pipeline is currently on fire, though the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown at this time.
Authorities have yet to determine whether the incident resulted from human interference, especially amid recent threats by militant groups to attack oil installations in response to the Federal Government’s withholding of Rivers State’s allocation due to the ongoing political crisis.
The explosion occurred along the critical export pipeline that transports crude to the Bonny Terminal.
The TNP is a federal transport line that supplies oil to the Bonny Export Terminal in Rivers State.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has also confirmed that a fire incident occurred at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) operated Trans Niger Delta Pipeline, located at the border of Kpor and Bodo communities.
According to the command, security operatives observed the incident and promptly alerted SPDC management. The latter initiated necessary safety protocols, including shutting down the affected pipeline.
It further said, the situation is now under control, and there is no further threat to residents or the environment.
“The Rivers State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire. In connection with this, two individuals have been taken in for questioning as part of efforts to uncover any potential act of sabotage.
The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.
“We urge residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring them of our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. The Command will not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and maintain peace and security for all.
