Navy Arrests Vessel, 20 Suspects with Illegal Crude Oil in Bayelsa
tanker vessel
Twenty suspects and a vessel have been arrested by the Nigerian Navy over their Illegal sourcing of crude oil in Bayelsa state.
The vessel “MT TIS IV” was arrested by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS Soroh) carrying 4,402 barrels of crude oil which estimated worth was put at $315,500 (N148,281,000).
The vessel was arrested in Akassa River in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa.
The 20 suspects arrested in connection with the illegal cargo were onboard the vessel to lift the crude to different destinations.
The Commander of NNS Soroh, Commodore Patrick Effah who on Monday briefed newsmen on the arrest said the suspects led officers to four pits where they dug out the crude oil.
During the arrest which was made on December 6, the Navy said officers discovered that the vessel was carrying 700,000 litres, about 603 metric tons or 4,402 barrels of crude without approval.
He said that the Navy has reported to the relevant oil and gas company the storage pit where oil was found for evacuation.
Part of the statement reads, “NNS SOROH has been relentless in identifying and arresting perpetrators of crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes.
“It is noteworthy that the Nigerian Navy remains unwavering in its drive to rid Nigeria’s maritime environment of all forms of criminalities”.
About Post Author
