Following criticism that trailed the destruction of a bunkering vessel arrested by Tompolo and his men, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor said the action wass in order.
Nigerians had questioned the burning down of the vessel in the Niger Delta creeks after it was arrested alongside its crew. They argued that it would have been better if the real owners of the vessels were identified before it was quickly destroyed by security operatives. The House of Representatives has vowed to investigate the action.
But General Irabor who was speaking in Abuja during the meeting of the security council said: “There are various approaches, various solutions to a problem and at any time based on certain factors, certain considerations, available to those that are at the frontline, actions are taken based on the directive which are contained in the rules of engagement.
“So, the burning of the vessel, it is because the thief was caught in the act and the procedure, if you are caught in the act, is that everything you are using to undertake that criminal activity should be destroyed and that was done.
“What investigation do you need that you find somebody who decided to deplore several pumping machines and has several hoses that are deployed to a dug out pit where crude oil is stored over a period?
“It was caught in the act. So, the instrument of operation was what was destroyed. I think it is straightforward. Whether that is the best is a different matter entirely but did they act in line with the rules of engagement? Yes, they did.”
