Nigerian Navy nabs 3 suspects with stolen crude oil in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka has arrested three suspected oil thieves found transporting crude oil valued at N32 million in Akwa Ibom State.

Captain Uche Aneke, Commanding Officer of the Base, announced the arrest on Thursday while handing over the suspects and seized items to the Akwa Ibom Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at Ibaka.

Aneke stated that the suspects were apprehended on Tuesday around 9:05 am, following intelligence reports on the activities of criminals involved in crude oil theft within the Navy’s operational area.

“With the support of FOB Ibaka, the Tantita team intercepted and arrested the suspects on a wooden boat carrying approximately 60,000 liters of crude oil believed to be stolen,” he said.

Additional items recovered included outboard engines and a pumping machine. At the time of arrest, the boat had three crew members, all Nigerians, onboard. The vessel contained 11 Geepee tanks loaded with about 60,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil, allegedly loaded offshore from Ibeno in Akwa Ibom.

Captain Aneke also issued a warning to those engaged in or planning illegal activities in Nigerian waters, urging them to desist. He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to combat maritime crimes under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.