NSCDC Operatives Clash with Jalingo Residents Scooping Fuel from Tanker Accident Site
On Wednesday, operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) clashed with residents, particularly youths, who were caught scooping fuel from a tanker that had overturned along the Jalingo-Numan Road.
The incident occurred around 11:45 a.m. at Mile 6 Roundabout, just beside the Mile 6 Market, when a fuel-laden tanker lost control and fell, spilling its contents. While some market vendors hastily shut their shops in fear of a potential fire outbreak, a large crowd of young people from the surrounding area descended upon the scene with buckets, cans, and containers, eagerly collecting the leaking fuel. This reckless act occurred despite recent reports of deadly explosions at similar fuel spill accidents across the country.
The sight of hundreds of liters of fuel being scooped up drew the attention of NSCDC officers, who swiftly arrived at the scene to disperse the crowd. By the time the security personnel reached the location, many youths had already filled large containers and were seen carrying the fuel to drums positioned several meters away.
Confirming the incident, NSCDC spokesperson for Taraba State, Mr. Illia Samuel, told LEADERSHIP that the corps had acted swiftly to prevent any potential disaster.
“We immediately mobilized our personnel to the site upon receiving information about the accident to prevent any dangerous situation that could lead to loss of life or property,” Samuel explained. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of both the residents and travelers in the area.”
The NSCDC officers’ prompt intervention was crucial in averting a tragedy, as they successfully cleared the area and ensured that no further danger arose from the fuel spill.
