Nigerian Navy Intercepts Three Vessels in Calabar

On April 8, 2023, at 11:45 PM, a joint operation by the Nigerian Navy, led by Olugbenga Oladipo, and the Nigerian Air Force resulted in the interception of two vessels, MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf, in the Calabar maritime area of Akwa Ibom. The operation was initiated based on credible intelligence and involved naval air assets, including helicopters for real-time aerial surveillance.

The MT Mkpodu was found siphoning crude oil, with an estimated 480 metric tons suspected to be stolen, while the MT Westaf had 459 metric tons onboard at the time of arrest. The combined crew of 26 members was apprehended.

Following this, further intelligence led to the arrest of a third vessel, MT Stello K, on April 10, also linked to crude oil theft activities. Oladipo emphasized the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to combat crude oil theft, which poses a threat to economic stability and security in the region.