The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka has apprehended three suspected oil thieves transporting a boat loaded with crude oil valued at N32 million in Akwa Ibom State.
Captain Uche Aneke, the Commanding Officer of the Base, revealed this while handing over the suspects and confiscated items to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Akwa Ibom on Thursday at Ibaka.
Aneke stated that the suspects were arrested on Tuesday at approximately 9:05 a.m. after an intelligence report indicated criminal activities related to crude oil theft within the Navy’s operational area.
“With 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 litres of product suspected to be stolen crude oil.
“Other items recovered from the suspects included outboard engines and a pumping machine.
“Notably, at the time of arrest, the wooden boat had a total of three crew members (all Nigerians).
“The vessel was discovered to have 11 Geepee tanks which were loaded with about 60,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, the product was overloaded from offshore Ibeno in Akwa Ibom,” Aneke said.
He cautioned individuals or groups intending to engage in criminal activities within Nigerian waters or to smuggle illegal goods in or out of the country to cease such actions immediately.
Aneke also reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to combating maritime crimes in the state, under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.