Eko Hot Blog reports that the Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder, based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, announced the arrest of 11 suspected oil thieves in Krakrama Creeks, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The suspects were apprehended aboard a wooden boat loaded with equipment used in constructing an illegal refining site.
Commander Sa’id Kabir, representing Commodore Desmond Igbo, the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, revealed the details during a press parade in Port Harcourt on Monday.
The suspects and seized items were later handed over to personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
According to Kabir, the arrested individuals were caught with items such as 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron, and 20 gas cylinders concealed in the wooden boat, intended for constructing an illegal refinery in the creeks.
The suspects claimed to be employees hired by a man known only as Mr. John, who is presently being sought after by the navy.
Commander Sa’id Kabir stated, “In line with the Chief of Naval Staff’s strategic mandate on zero tolerance for crude oil and other petroleum products theft, the Base has been resolute in conducting operations to deny the oil thieves freedom of action in its Area of Operations.”
He warned oil thieves and criminal elements in Bile and other parts of Rivers State to desist from such activities, emphasizing that the Navy would spare no effort to apprehend and bring them to justice.
Responding to the development, Deputy Superintendent Monday Lawal from the Intelligence and Investigation Department of the NSCDC mentioned that all suspects would undergo further investigation, and if found guilty, they would face prosecution.
“The arrested suspects claimed they were contracted by one Mr. John. At the moment, the Base is making concerted efforts to arrest Mr. John and other suspects involved in this criminal act,” Kabir added.
The Nigerian Navy remains committed to combating illegal activities in its operational areas, particularly oil theft and related crimes.
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