Five pipeline vandals reportedly met their waterloo in the creeks of Azagbene in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, following a pipeline explosion that rocked the creek, in their attempt to vandalise the oil pipeline.
The Tide gathered that two of the victims were burnt beyond recognition and their charred remains were found alongside three others by the indigenes of the community.
It was also gathered that the victims attempted to damage the oil pipeline with dynamite, before luck ran out on them.
The pipeline explosion incidence has however generated reactions from concerned stakeholders.
A group known as Niger Delta Coalition Against Violence, has described the incidence as “unfortunate”, stating that such wastages of lives were avoidable. President of the body, Comrade Lekia Christian who spoke with The Tide in an interview said, issues such as pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering have not only constituted colossal damages to the environment but led to the death of many young people.
He called on youths to desist from such criminal acts and embrace genuine means of livelihood.
Also reacting, the Hon Commissioner for Environment in Rivers State, Prof Roseline Konya said that the activities of pipeline vandals and crude oil thieves have continued to pose a threat to the environment.
She regretted that most young people had refused to heed the voice of reason and as such have continued to meet their unfortunate deaths in grave circumstances.

Taneh Beemene