Personnel of the Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Delta State have apprehended three suspected pipeline vandals and recovered six crude-laden boats.

Parading the two suspects and recovered items at the Warri Naval Base on Wednesday, the Commander of NNS Delta, Commodore Abdulazeez Zubairu, said that the suspects were arrested by the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos anti-crude oil theft team.

Mr Zubairu said that the suspected crude oil thieves were arrested at Chevron Nigeria Limited, Malu Jacket, 19 offshore Escravos in the Niger Delta creek.

He said that base’s personnel conducted a sting operation in the early hours of Sunday following credible intelligence.

According to Mr Zubairu, three of the suspects were apprehended at the scene, while others fled in six speed boats powered by 200 HP engines and carrying nine drums a piece.

The naval chief said that the modus operandi of the suspects further indicated the involvement of a well-organised and well-resourced syndicate.

He said, “The suspects were attempting to illegally siphon crude oil from the jacket in a highly coordinated operation when our operatives acted swiftly and decisively.

Our operatives prevented what could have resulted in significant environmental and economic damage. The arrested suspects, all of whom hail from Ondo State, are currently in custody and undergoing preliminary investigation. Relevant authorities have been duly notified for further joint investigation and prosecution.Also, investigations are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and dismantle the broader network behind this coordinated illegal activity.’’

Mr Zubairu said that the successful operations highlighted the strategic value of collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and stakeholders in the oil sector.

He added, “This arrest underscores the Nigeria Navy’s commitment under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla’s initiative of ‘Operation Delta Sanity.’ And other internal security mandates to ensure zero tolerance for oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and all forms of maritime criminality.’’

Mr Zubairu said that the arrest would serve as warning to the criminals that the Nigeria Navy remained poised and ever vigilant in protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain and economic resources.

He appreciated the support provided by the public and urged them to always report suspicious activities to the nearest naval or security outpost.

(NAN)