The Nigerian Navy, through the vigilant patrol team of NNS BEECROFT, successfully intercepted a large wooden boat on the night of October 25, 2023, within the Lagos anchorage area. This operation, initiated with the assistance of the Falcone Eye Alignment, a state-of-the-art Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, has effectively thwarted illegal bunkering activities that posed a significant threat to the nation’s resources.
The intercepted wooden boat was carrying eight crew members, over 300 drums, pumping machines, and other equipment that could have been used for the illegal siphoning of petroleum products. This decisive action by the patrol team prevented the illegal handling of these products by potential saboteurs, averting a disaster and safeguarding valuable resources intended for consumption by Nigerians.
The Nigerian Navy’s prompt and proactive response to halt these economic saboteurs is a testament to its unwavering commitment to safeguarding vital resources and ensuring the safety of lives and property within the maritime domain. This commitment reflects the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff.
Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore KO Oguntuga who was represented by his deputy Captain Christian Akokota emphasized the importance of handing over the suspected economic saboteurs to the appropriate agency for investigation and prosecution.
This action sends a strong message that the Nigerian Navy is determined to ensure the full weight of the law is applied to perpetrators of maritime crimes. This is crucial for sustaining the nation’s economic prosperity.
The arrested individuals, identified as Mr. Selafei Tito, Mr. Seba Hunton, Mr. Etieni Abibu, Mr. Ahousansou Lawlent, Mr. Oke Job, Mr. Abel Yede, Mr. Matiye Husa, and Mr. Husa Hungha, will undergo thorough interrogation to reveal their motives and uncover the identities of any potential sponsors during the investigation process.
The suspects were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), where further investigations will be carried out, and necessary legal actions will be taken.
This collaborative effort among security agencies demonstrates a united front against maritime crimes, ensuring the continued protection of Nigeria’s maritime resources and economic stability.