The Nigerian Army has confirmed that investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo was arrested at an illegal oil bunkering site.
The army’s statement came in response to public outcry over Soyombo’s detention.
The Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Soyombo had been held in Army custody for the past three days.
“The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has been detaining our founder, Fisayo Soyombo, for three days running. Journalism is not a crime,” FIJ said.
Confirming Soyombo’s arrest in a statement on Friday, the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, explained that the operation leading to Soyombo’s detention followed intelligence regarding a notorious gang of oil thieves involved in pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections in the region.
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Danjuma stated that the suspects arrested at the site, including Soyombo, are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to determine their level of involvement.
“You will recall that the Division has intensified its anti-illegal oil bunkering operations, achieving significant operational successes,” Danjuma said.
“Recently, intelligence revealed the presence of a notorious gang of oil thieves known for pipeline sabotage and illegal oil connections. In a targeted operation, troops traced the criminals to an illegal oil bunkering site. During the operation, arrests were made, including that of Fisayo Soyombo, who was also detained at the scene.”
“The suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations to assess their involvement. Therefore, Soyombo’s arrest is linked to the activities of these oil thieves in the region. It is important for media outlets to ensure the accuracy of the information they publish,” he added.
“The Division reassures the public of its commitment to curbing criminal activities, particularly oil theft, in the region, which will ultimately help increase oil and gas production in the country,” Danjuma concluded.