Police Arrest Four Over Alleged PMS Fraud Scheme in Lagos, Case Transferred to SCID Panti

Police Arrest Four Over Alleged PMS Fraud Scheme in Lagos, Case Transferred to SCID Panti

 The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four suspects over an alleged petroleum fraud scheme involving Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Satellite Town, with authorities confirming that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further action.

The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended four individuals over an alleged fraudulent scheme involving petroleum products in Satellite Town, Lagos.

The suspects, aged between 33 and 43, were arrested on April 14 at about 6:00 p.m., following intelligence reports and internal security alerts from an oil and gas firm.

According to a police source, the suspects allegedly attempted to defraud by offering Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at prices below the official depot rate under false pretences. The product in question reportedly belongs to AA Rano Nigeria Limited.

Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects brought five articulated trucks bearing different number plates to the company’s depot to facilitate the loading of PMS as part of the alleged scheme.

Further revelations showed that the group had planned to purchase over 60,000 litres of PMS using about 40 trucks, with questionable pricing arrangements and unverified vehicle details.

One of the suspects, who admitted involvement, disclosed that they were not affiliated with any recognised union operating at the depot.

The alleged irregularities were detected by the Chief Security Officer of AA Rano Nigeria Limited, who ordered the immediate arrest of the suspects before handing them over to the police.

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Fatai Tijani, has since directed that the case be transferred from the Agboju Divisional Police Station to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, for comprehensive investigation under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dayo Akinbisehin.

The police boss also commended the management of AA Rano Oil & Gas Nigeria Limited for its prompt response in alerting authorities, noting that such vigilance is critical in curbing criminal activities within the oil and gas sector.

He further urged stakeholders in the industry to emulate the company’s proactive approach in safeguarding petroleum products and maintaining operational integrity.

Police sources confirmed that investigations have been concluded, and efforts are underway to arraign the suspects in court in accordance with due process.

The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, while calling on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support law enforcement efforts.