The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an interrogation of 11 individuals suspected of involvement in oil theft in Rivers State. This development follows the handover of the suspects and their vessel to the EFCC by the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO, Brass, Bayelsa State, for further investigation.
The move comes amidst President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the nation’s economy, particularly in light of the persistent challenge of oil theft and bunkering, which experts have identified as significant factors undermining economic stability.
The suspects were apprehended by the Nigerian Navy on February 7, 2024, near Fish Town, Rivers State, while aboard the MFT Trade Wind, carrying approximately 40,000 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Navy Captain Murtala Aminu Rogo, the officer overseeing the handover, disclosed that the vessel was intercepted by FOB FORMOSO due to its suspected involvement in illegal bunkering activities. He revealed that the vessel was believed to be supplying its illicit cargo to other vessels at sea. Laboratory tests conducted on samples from the vessel confirmed the presence of illegally refined AGO.
“The activities of the 11 suspected oil thieves and the vessel MFT Trade Wind constitute economic sabotage, which the Nigerian Navy is committed to combating,” Navy Captain Rogo stated during a briefing with reporters.
Upon receiving the suspects and the vessel, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE II Salim Abubakar, commended the collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Navy and the EFCC. He assured the public of thorough investigations into the matter, with the possibility of prosecution for those found responsible. Abubakar underscored the EFCC’s dedication to curbing illicit activities in Nigeria’s maritime sector, emphasizing the grave threats such actions pose to national security and the economy.