In a decisive operation, the Nigerian Navy Seizes Oil Forward Operating Base (FOB) IGBOKODA in Ondo State has successfully intercepted and arrested the 77-meter-long Motor Tanker (MT) VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS for illicitly siphoning crude oil within the country’s oil facility in the Niger Delta.
The vessel, along with its 17-member crew, was apprehended in the act of illegal oil siphoning from one of the well heads at the EBESAN oil field, situated approximately 7 nautical miles off the coast of Awoye riverine community in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Navy Commodore Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, the force’s spokesman, disclosed that the arrest was based on credible intelligence about the vessel’s illegal activities, prompting the swift deployment of FOB IGBOKODA personnel to enforce the arrest.
Upon approaching MT VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS, the two boats attached to the vessel attempted to flee upon sighting naval personnel, confirming the engagement in illegality. The vessel was found actively siphoning crude oil from both sides of the well head with a storage capacity of about 15,000 metric tonnes. At the time of arrest, it had loaded approximately 500 metric tonnes of crude oil.
This operation underscores the Nigerian Navy Seizes Oil commitment to combat crude oil theft and illegalities in the maritime domain. The statement issued by the Navy warns criminals and their accomplices that all legitimate means will be employed to track and apprehend perpetrators of illegal activities in Nigeria’s maritime environment.
Additionally, the Navy calls on individuals engaged in lawful business to continue their activities, while urging the public to promptly report any criminal activities, especially in coastal communities, for necessary action.
The statement also raises concerns about the alleged involvement of Tantita Security Service (TSS) in these illegal activities, with the Awoye riverine area falling under TSS coverage. Despite false alarms raised by TSS upon the vessel’s arrest, the Nigerian Navy remains resolute in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to protect Nigeria’s maritime environment for national economic development and prosperity.
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