TheCable

The Nigerian Navy says it has arrested 10 persons for alleged involvement in oil bunkering in Akwa Ibom state. 

The navy also said it seized 7,000 barrels of crude oil from the suspects.

Madumom Ide, the commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee, said this on Friday at Ibaka in Mbo LGA of the state.

Ide said the arrest was made at Ikot Abasi LGA of the state on December 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,” Ide said.

“The vessel, as it stands, has capacity for 1,022 tonnes translating to over 7,000 barrels of oil, which is about over N800 million.

“Imagine what that amount will do for the community and our country at large?”

Ide added that the vessel was arrested by NNS Orji and handed over to NNS Jubilee, noting that it was kept at the Forward Operation Base in Ibaka.

He emphasised the navy’s commitment to ridding the maritime space of criminals and nefarious activities.

Ide urged those involved in economic sabotage to desist from it.

“Nigerian Navy has resolved more than ever to stop criminals from ripping our common patrimony,” he added.

He said the suspects, the crude oil, and the vessel, would be handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution.