The Nigerian Navy Shipyard (NNS) Jubilee, on Wednesday, handed over nine suspected oil thieves arrested in Akwa Ibom State to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Commander, Commodore Mohammed Manga, told journalists in Ibaka that the suspects were apprehended over oil theft and illegal bunkering activities in the state.

Mr Manga said that on Monday, men of the command apprehended the suspects with a wooden boat at an oil platform situated offshore Asabo Oil Field in Akwa Ibom State.

The commander said that the boat and the nine-man crew members were intercepted while attempting to illegally siphon crude oil from the platform.

“The wooden boat and the tools used for the illicit activity were confiscated in line with extant regulations and operational procedures,” he said.

He said that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were engaged in illegal bunkering activities.

“Illegal oil bunkering is a criminal act that undermines Nigeria’s economic stability, and threatens maritime security. It causes significant environmental degradation,” he stated.

Mr Manga said that the navy had intensified its anti-illegal bunkering operations within the state to ensure that the nation’s oil assets were safe.

“The base is committed to combating maritime crimes within its area of operations. This arrest is part of sustained operational efforts aimed at actualising the strategic directives of the chief of the naval staff.

“Our patrols are strategically designed to protect critical national assets, safeguard offshore and coastal infrastructure, and secure commercial maritime routes within our operational environment,” he said.

The commander warned perpetrators of illegal maritime activities to desist immediately, saying that the navy remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain.

Receiving the suspects and exhibits on behalf of the EFCC, Taiwo Adetona, said that the commission would ensure a thorough investigation on the matter, and those found liable would be prosecuted accordingly. (NAN)