The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base, Ibaka, in the Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, has apprehended two persons over the alleged theft of 2,100 litres of premium motor spirit.

The commanding officer, Aliyu Abdullahi, disclosed this while handing over the suspects and items to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ibaka on Monday.

Mr Abdullahi said navy personnel apprehended the suspects at about 7:45 p.m. on January 24 while on a routine patrol along the Mbo River area.

He said that during the patrol, naval personnel intercepted a wooden boat carrying over 2,100 litres of petrol concealed under cargos such as bread, fruits and bags of cassava flakes, among others.

The commanding officer said the suspects’ intention was to smuggle the product from Nigeria into the Republic of Cameroun.

The commanding officer said that under the watch of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, the FOB IBAKA would remain committed to fighting waterway crime.

Mr Abdullahi said it would be impossible for maritime crimes to continue in the waterways and coastal areas of Akwa Ibom.

“We shall continue to detect criminals and their activities within the nation’s waterways through the use of advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence.

“Individuals or groups involved in smuggling or any form of criminal activity within Nigeria’s waters should desist immediately,” he said.

After receiving the suspects and items, ASC Willie Emediong said the NSCDC would prosecute them after thorough investigations.

(NAN)