In 2023, the Nigerian Navy reported the successful recovery of 803 barrels of crude oil, estimated to be worth N105 billion, through operations conducted nationwide. Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, shared these achievements during a press conference held in Abuja on Friday.
Ogalla highlighted the navy’s efforts in combatting illegal activities, revealing that a total of 703 illegal refining sites were destroyed during the period. Additionally, naval operatives apprehended five barges, 690 Cotonou boats loaded with stolen crude oil, and seized 116 speed boats. A total of 232 individuals involved in crude oil theft (COT) were arrested. Furthermore, the navy took action against 82 vehicles/trucks and 23 vessels during the operations.
Among the vessels arrested were MT Marine Express, MT Cecilia, MT Ufuoma, MT Vigor I, MV Barge Ayeba Eneni, FT Lamu I, and MT Vinnalaris I in Lagos, among others. The seized assets included 46,369,219 liters of AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), 2,472,200 liters of DPK (Dual-Purpose Kerosene), and 438,886 liters of PMS (Premium Motor Spirit). In addition to these, the navy successfully recovered 803,353.20 barrels of crude oil.
Vice Admiral Ogalla emphasized that the combined market value of the seized assets amounted to approximately N105 billion. He expressed satisfaction with the navy’s accomplishments and its dedication to curbing illegal activities within the maritime domain.
Furthermore, Ogalla highlighted the navy’s involvement in countering illicit drug trafficking. Between April and November 2023, the Nigerian Navy arrested individuals in possession of 692 bags of Cannabis Sativa, valued at around N1.38 billion. The seized drugs were subsequently handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in accordance with legal procedures.