Maritime authorities seize contraband, detain eight individuals in Rivers State operation

The Nigerian Navy has successfully intercepted a substantial quantity of approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products, while also apprehending eight suspects in Rivers, as part of a recent operation.

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This development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, who provided details of the operation.

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The operation, which was conducted under the auspices of Operation DELTA SENTINEL, was carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER in the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo axis, resulting in the interception of two wooden boats laden with suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

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According to Commodore Folorunsho, the naval patrol team acted on credible intelligence to intercept the boats, and the operation also led to the arrest of eight suspects linked to the illegal activity, while some armed accomplices fled upon sighting the patrol team.

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The arrested suspects and recovered products are currently in custody, and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution, as stated by Commodore Folorunsho.

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The success of this operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, which mandates intensified operations against crude oil theft and maritime crimes, and Commodore Folorunsho noted that this feat is a significant step in this direction.

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The Navy plans to sustain the tempo of Operation DELTA SENTINEL through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced patrols, and inter-agency collaboration, as emphasized by Commodore Folorunsho.

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The Spokesperson reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting critical national assets, underscoring the importance of these efforts in maintaining national security.