The fire, that engulfed the Kolo Creek-Rumekpe pipeline operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Oruma, Ogbia Local Government Area in Bayelsa on Monday, has been put out, the company announced.

The fire incident occurred barely five days after an oil leak from SPDC’s Kolo Creek Manifold.

SPDC’s Spokesman Joseph Obari, in a statement Friday, confirmed the fire incident but said it had been extinguished. He said the fire may have been induced by oil thieves.

Obari said in the statement: “Another leak/fire was reported on April 20 on the Kolo Creek–Rumuekpe trunk line, about 5kms from the manifold.

“The fire has been extinguished; site observation confirmed a recently excavated ditch at the fire point.

“SPDC has expressed concern at the brazen damage of its facilities in parts of the Delta.

“It commended the Bayelsa State Government for its support and called on communities and other stakeholders to join hands in the efforts to discourage the trend.”

•Photo shows pipeline fire.