Navy Intercepts Vessel for Oil Theft in Akwa Ibom

On July 23, 2026, the Nigerian Navy intercepted the vessel MT FILIA and arrested its 12 crew members for their alleged involvement in siphoning stolen crude oil from an oil well at Utue Terminal in Akwa Ibom State. This operation was based on credible intelligence and was conducted under Operation Delta Sentinel.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the vessel was carrying approximately 32.82 metric tonnes of fuel oil and 650 metric tonnes of crude oil without the necessary documentation or lawful authorization. The vessel, crew, and cargo were taken into custody for further investigation and potential prosecution.

Between April and June 2026, the Navy reported recovering over 4.7 million litres of petroleum products and deactivating numerous illegal refining sites. Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, commended the personnel for their professionalism and reaffirmed the Navy's commitment to combating crude oil theft and ensuring national security.