Nigerian Navy Seizes Two Vessels with ₦4bn Stolen Oil
• Punch Newspapers • Business
On April 8 and April 10, 2023, the Nigerian Navy arrested two vessels, MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf, involved in the theft of crude oil valued at ₦4 billion. The operation, conducted by the Joint Task Force in the South-South region, resulted in the apprehension of 26 crew members. Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo disclosed the details during a briefing with newsmen in Calabar, Cross River State. The arrests were made possible through credible intelligence received at midnight on April 8, leading to the vessels being apprehended near a wellhead in the Calabar and Akwa Ibom joint operational area. The Nigerian Navy deployed a helicopter for real-time aerial imaging during the operation. The vessels were subsequently taken into custody offshore, and the crew members were transferred to the Navy jetty in Calabar. Rear Admiral Chidozi Okehi emphasized the Navy's commitment to combating crude oil theft in Nigerian waters, supported by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abba.
Topics: Oil and Gas, Security