The Rivers State Government says a cartel that benefits from the illegal refining of crude oil is responsible for the prevailing black soot pollution in the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Professor Princewell Chike, also said the government has taken a leading role to curb activities that contribute to the pollution.

Professor Chike gave this indication at the Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of Nigerian Medical Association in Port Harcourt.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Nyesom Wike, the Health Commissioner also disclosed that government has concluded arrangements for the acquisition of Mobile Screening Equipment to screen patients for illnesses that may arise from soot pollution.

Professor Princewell Chike expressed displeasure over the level of environmental degradation in some of communities, including Degema, Gokana, Kula and Beele, due to illegal refining activities.