The Nigerian Navy has arrested nine suspected oil thieves in Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects were apprehended at a wellhead approximately 26 nautical miles offshore during operations under Operation Delta Sanity 2.
Launched by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, on December 30, 2024, the initiative targets crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other maritime crimes in the Eastern flank of Nigeria’s territorial waters.
Since its inception, the operation has included maritime and air patrols alongside interdiction missions aimed at safeguarding national resources.
Commander of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Abubakar Umar, warned criminal elements to desist from such illegal activities, emphasizing the Navy’s readiness to decisively tackle economic sabotage.
He also assured the public that the arrested suspects will undergo thorough investigations and, if found guilty, will face the full weight of the law.