The Nigerian Army has revealed its reasons for the arrest of Foundation of Investigative Journalists (FIJ)) publisher, Fisayo Soyombo.
This was contained in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, on Friday.
The army revealed that Soyombo’s arrest is directly linked to the ongoing anti-oil theft operations in the region, stating that any claims suggesting otherwise are baseless.
According to the statement, recent intelligence led to uncovered the activities of a notorious gang involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal oil connections in the region.
It further stated that multiple arrests were mafe thereafter in which Soyombo was found and arrested on scene.
The statement read in part;
”The Headquarters, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, has expressed concern over allegations circulating on social media that it detained an investigative journalist in Port Harcourt.
“While the Division does not typically engage with the purveyors of falsehoods, it is necessary to set the record straight.
“As part of its intensified operations against illegal oil bunkering, the 6 Division Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes.
“Recent intelligence uncovered the activities of a notorious gang involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal oil connections in the region. In a carefully planned operation, troops tracked the suspects to an illegal oil bunkering site.
“During the operation, multiple arrests were made, including that of Mr Fisayo Soyombo, who was found at the scene.
“The suspects, including Mr Soyombo, are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their level of involvement in the illegal activities.
“His arrest is directly linked to the ongoing anti-oil theft operations in the region, and any claims suggesting otherwise are baseless.”
The Division has therefore urged the media to verify reports before disseminating information to the public.
“The 6 Division Nigerian Army remains committed to combating criminal activities, particularly oil theft, to ensure the protection of national resources and increased oil and gas production in the region.
The Nigerian Army assures the public of its dedication to upholding security and welcomes constructive engagements to foster understanding and transparency.” The statement read.