Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has condemned the activities of pipeline vandals whose criminal activities are undermining the national economy, stressing economic saboteurs will not be spared when caught.
Governor Oshiomhole stated this yesterday at the destruction of eleven petrol tankers, two cars and jerry cans used by pipeline vandals arrested by the Army.
According to the Governor “it is a shame that we still have some criminal elements in our midst who are still involved in pipeline vandalisation in spite of the fact this has claimed several lives in different parts of the country over a period of time.”
Oshiomhole noted that “the disposing of the tankers is to make the point that those who allow their assets or facilities to be used to perpetrate crimes like this within the territory of Edo State when apprehended would be counting their losses.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to our people that we all have a stake in this country and to ensure that government properties are protected. It is our commonwealth and everybody must be vigilant. We all must assist the security agencies to identify these economic saboteurs. I want to assure the people that their identity would be protected”, he said.
He maintained “I believe the message we have sent is loud and clear. That inasmuch as some people try to undermine the national economy, when they are caught, they will be counting their losses and subject to court findings, they may end up in jail.”
Oshiomhole commended the security agencies for their efforts saying “I want to appreciate the efforts, patriotism and the zeal with which the officers and men have displayed without which these criminals would escape with their stolen products”.
