In a crackdown on illicit activities, the Nigerian Navy has apprehended 11 individuals suspected of planning to construct an illegal refinery in Rivers.
The suspects, artisans believed to be involved in illegal oil bunkering, were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Port Harcourt on Monday.
The Base Operations Officer of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder Port Harcourt, Cdr. Sa’id Kabir, took charge of the handover, delivering the suspects to Mr Monday Lawal of the NSCDC Command.
The arrests stem from a focused patrol of Krakrama Waterways, an initiative aimed at curbing the pervasive issue of illegal oil bunkering in Rivers.
Cdr. Kabir shed light on the circumstances leading to the arrests, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for crude oil and other petroleum products theft.
The Tactical Response and Assault Squadron of NNS Pathfinder intercepted a boat carrying 11 persons during a patrol around Krakrama Creeks on January 23.
Issuing a stern warning to oil thieves, Cdr. Kabir urged them to relocate from Rivers, emphasizing the Navy’s determination to apprehend and bring them to justice.
He highlighted the awareness within the Navy of attempts by criminal elements to undermine the security outfit, allowing them to continue their illicit operations unchecked.
Despite these challenges, Cdr. Kabir assured the public of Rivers of the Navy’s unwavering commitment to fostering a peaceful and secure environment for legitimate business activities.
Refusing to be deterred by the tactics employed by enemies of the nation, the base remains steadfast in its constitutional duties to safeguard the region.
The handover of the suspects to the NSCDC marks a collaborative effort between security agencies in Rivers, aiming to address the multifaceted challenges posed by illegal activities.
As the Nigerian Navy intensifies its operations to combat oil theft and safeguard the nation’s resources, this latest apprehension underscores the need for a concerted and coordinated approach to maintain security and uphold the rule of law in the region.
