The Nigerian Navy has handed over four suspected crude oil thieves and a large consignment of suspected illegally refined petroleum products to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The suspects were arrested in Ilaje Local Council Area of Ondo State during an anti-crude oil theft patrol conducted by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB).
According to the Commanding Officer of FOB Igbokoda, Captain Andy Alemongwa, the operation was carried out following credible intelligence on illegal crude oil activities in the axis.
While speaking on the development, Alemongwa stressed that the principal suspect attempted to flee upon sighting the naval patrol team but was swiftly intercepted alongside his accomplices.
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The Commanding Officer listed items recovered during the operation to include 100 jerry cans of 30 litres each, one 1,000-litre storage tank containing suspected illegally refined petroleum products, and several tools suspected to have been used for siphoning crude oil.
He added that while returning from the operation, the patrol team intercepted a boat operator in the vicinity illegally conveying petroleum products suspected to be Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
According to him, the intercepted boat was found carrying 29 jerry cans of 50 litres each and nine jerry cans of 30 litres each loaded with the suspected PMS.
“None of the suspects could produce documents authorising them to store or transport the petroleum products or provide proof that the products were lawfully obtained in accordance with existing regulations,” Alemongwa stated.
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