The Nigerian security and intelligence agencies have made a major breakthrough in tracking the source of explosives used by the Niger Delta militants to blow up the oil pipelines and facilities with the arrest of several suspects including five security personnel.

National Security Adviser (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd.), made the revelation when he met with the representatives of local manufacturers of fertilisers on Thursday in Abuja.

Monguno disclosed that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) conducted investigation into the incessant bombing of oil facilities in the Niger Delta and discovered that commercial explosives and accessories were used for the attacks.

He said that resultant investigation and detailed audit of the records of explosives magazines and quarries in the region revealed “the diversion of about 9,000kg of high explosives and 16,420 pieces of detonators for illegal use.”

He revealed that “the actors, including the store man of a major explosives distribution company in Nigeria, an accomplice and five security operatives have been arrested and handed over to the appropriate authorities.”

“Right now investigations are being conducted and I can assure you that they are deeply culpable and the necessary action will be taken on the conclusion of these investigations,” he remarked.

The NSA however assure that the administration is committed to the wellbeing, safety and security of the Nigerian citizenry and urged members of the public and business community to do their business in accordance to laid down rules of law.

“Let me also reiterate that any individual or company that operations outside the confines of legitimacy or illegality will have itself to blame and we also want to add that the government of the day will not listen to any influence peddler in the society on behalf of any company that decides to sabotage national security,” he warned.

•Adapted from a PRNigeria report. Photo shows Niger Delta militants.

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