The Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Patrol Team, in collaboration with the Forward Operating Base Badagry near the Nigeria-Benin Republic boundary, successfully intercepted a wooden boat carrying over 800 jerry cans, each containing 30 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). The arrest was made on Friday, according to a statement by Sub-Lieutenant H. A Collins, the NNS Beecroft Base Information Officer, as reported by The PUNCH.
Commander Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, leading the operation, highlighted that the boat was sailing seaward 80 nautical miles from the shore when it was intercepted by the NNS Beecroft Patrol Team and the Forward Operating Base Badagry. The operation was part of the ongoing Operation Water Guard, showcasing the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maritime security.
Commander Oguntuga stated, “In a feat of maritime security prowess, under the ongoing Operation Water Guard, the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Patrol Team in collaboration with the Forward Operating Base Badagry… successfully intercepted a huge wooden boat, laden with over 800 jerricans of 30 litres each containing products suspected to be PMS.”
The interception took place in the early hours of Friday, January 19, 2024, highlighting the Navy’s vigilance in preventing illegal activities along the maritime border between Nigeria and Benin Republic.