The Nigerian Navy has arrested 10 persons suspected to be dealing in oil bunkering in Akwa Ibom State.
Commodore Madumom Ide, the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship Jubilee, made the disclosure to newsmen.
Ide spoke on Friday at Ibaka in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
He said that the arrest was made at Ikot Abasi LGA of the state on December 28, 2023.
The Commander added that the navy impounded a vessel, codenamed: “Motor Tanker Queen Hansal,” containing products suspected to be crude oil.
He said: “Ten suspects were arrested – one captain and nine crew members – all Nigerians.
“The vessel, as it stands, has capacity for 1,022 tonnes, translating to over 7,000 barrel of oil, which is about over N800 million.
“Imagine what that amount will do for the community and our country at large?”
Ide disclosed that the vessel was arrested by NNS Orji and handed over to NNS Jubilee, adding that it was kept at the Forward Operation Base in Ibaka.
He said the Nigerian Navy was committed to ridding the maritime space of criminals and nefarious activities.
He warned those involved in economic sabotage to desist from it.
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“The Nigerian Navy has resolved more than ever to stop criminals from ripping our common patrimony,” he said.
Ide said that the suspects, the crude oil and the vessel would be handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for further investigation and prosecution.