Navy cracks down on oil theft: Three arrested, N32m worth of oil seized

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka has dealt a significant blow to oil thieves, arresting three suspects and seizing a boat laden with crude oil valued at N32 million.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by Capt. Uche Aneke, Commanding Officer of the Base, the suspects were apprehended on Tuesday following an intelligence report.

“The necessary support of FOB Ibaka, the Tantita team intercepted and arrested the suspected criminals with a wooden boat discovered to be laden with about 60,000 liters of product suspected to be stolen crude oil.”

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The recovered items include:

– 60,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil
– Outboard engines
– Pumping machine
– 11 Geepee tanks

Aneke warned potential criminals, “Individuals or groups planning to carry out any form of criminality in Nigerian waters or smuggling illegal consignments into or out of Nigeria’s waters, to desist immediately.”

The Nigerian Navy, under Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s leadership, remains committed to combating maritime crimes.

Aneke emphasized, “Criminal elements in FOB Ibaka Area under the Eastern Naval Command Area of Responsibility will continue to be detected using advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence.”

Mr. Adetona Taiwo, Extractive Industry Fraud Section, Uyo Zonal Directorate, EFCC, received the seized items and suspects, promising further investigation and potential prosecution.

“This arrest and handover demonstrate the Navy’s unwavering dedication to protecting Nigeria’s maritime interests,” Capt. Aneke stated.

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