Navy arrests three suspected oil thieves in A’Ibom

Ini Billie, Uyo

The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, said it has arrested three suspected oil thieves carrying 2,000 litres of PMS, and 1,000 cartons of beer.

Commanding Officer, FOB, Capt. Uche Aneke said navy officials on routine night patrol at Mbo River during a stop-and-search apprehended the suspects at about 7 pm on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

Speaking on Friday in Ibaka while handing over the suspects and seized items to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Akwa Ibom State Command, Capt. Aneke said the suspects intended to smuggle the items to Cameroon.

“Navy intercepted a wooden laden boat with about 1,000 cartons of different brands of beer and other goods.

“Upon thorough search, own gunboat discovered 2,000 litres drums of PMS carefully concealed under the cartons with the intention of smuggling into the Republic of Cameroon,” he stated.

He urged individuals or groups involved in smuggling or any form of criminal activity within Nigeria’s waterway to desist from the act immediately.

The CO reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to combating maritime crimes in the state under the leadership of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

He also stated that criminal elements in the FOB, Ibaka area of operations under the Eastern Naval Command Area of responsibility would continue to be detected using advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence.

“Such criminals will be apprehended and duly prosecuted. Nigeria’s waters and the Nigerian coastal areas are not for illegal activities,” he said.

Receiving the suspects and items, Mr Willie Sunday, Assistant Superintendent Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) said the corps would investigate and prosecute the suspects.