The Nigerian Navy has arrested 10 persons suspected to be dealing in oil bunkering in Akwa Ibom State.
The Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS, Jubilee, commodore Madumom Ide told the newsmen on Friday that the arrest was made at Ikot Abasi LGA of the state on Dec. 28, 2023.
The commander added that the navy impounded a vessel code named “Motor Tanker Queen Hansal” containing products suspected to be crude oil.
“Ten suspects were arrested – one captain and nine crew members – all Nigerians.
“The vessel, as it stands, has capacity for 1,022 tonnes translating to over 7,000 barrel of oil, which is about over N800 million. Imagine what that amount will do for the community and our country at large?”, Ide asked.
He disclosed that the vessel was arrested by NNS Orji and handed over to NNS Jubilee, adding that it was kept at the Forward Operation Base in Ibaka.
Ide stated that the Nigerian Navy was committed to ridding the maritime space of criminals and nefarious activities.
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He warned those involved in economic sabotage to desist from it.
“Nigerian Navy has resolved more than ever to stopped criminals from ripping our common patrimony”, Ide said.
He added that the suspects, the crude oil and the vessel would be handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for further investigation and prosecution.
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