The Nigerian Navy (NN) Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom, has apprehended a suspected oil thief en route to Cameroon with 15,500 litres of suspected Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Capt. Uche Aneke, the Commanding Officer, made this known at Ibaka while handing over the suspect and the product to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC). The arrest took place around 2 a.m. on Friday.
Capt. Aneke explained that the Navy received intelligence regarding a boat transporting suspected smuggled products through the FOB Ibaka operational area, bound for Cameroon. Upon interception, they found 15,500 litres of suspected PMS hidden under a tarpaulin on the boat. A suspected smuggler was also apprehended.
He warned against smuggling illegal goods into or out of the country, emphasizing the Navy's dedication to combating such activities. Capt. Aneke stated, "We are committed to detecting every criminal move around our operational area using advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence. Criminals are warned that Nigeria’s water and coastal areas are not for illegal activities."
Etefia Koko-Ette, Head of the NSCDC Anti-Vandal Unit, mentioned that further investigation would be conducted into the matter.
