JTF uncovers plot by Ateke to attack Bonga Field

Bolaji Ogundele, Port Harcourt - 13.04.2008

Security formations in the Niger Delta have uncovered a plot by the fleeing cult leader, Tom Ateke and one of the leaders of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) known as Boylov to attack the deep offshore station called Bonga field as well as the city of Port Harcourt.

Sunday Tribune gathered from reliable security sources that Ateke, who had been on the run from Rivers State for countless number of crimes, has now found a new alliance in his Bayelsa-MEND connection and has been mobilising seriously to cause mayhem in the region.

But sources informed that the current plan blew open as security operatives within the region have been monitoring the movements of all armed groups and persons in the region and have noticed the heavy movement of men and arms for the operation by the two dreaded cultists.

According to one of the sources, the planned attack on Bonga field, a multi-billion dollar joint venture project operated by SNEPCO, and the one targeted at Port-Harcourt are to take place simultaneously, with the primary intent of confusing security operatives.

But senior security personnel confirmed knowledge of the planned attack to Sunday Tribune, adding that the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Flush Out 3, had plans ready to thwart the entire plans of the fugitives.

The reason for the planned attacks is not known as at the time of filing this report, but it is believed to be linked to the several threats by Ateke to attack the state for the raids on his property and hideouts, which he claimed had cost him fortune.

It will be recalled that Ateke was chased out of his Okochiri den by the JTF last year, after which other attacks had pushed him out of the remote Dawes Island from where he had reportedly relocated to somewhere in the territories of Bayelsa State.