The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta has handed over two suspected oil thieves to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officials for further interrogation.

The suspects were handed over to the NSCDC on Wednesday at the premises of the naval base in Warri.

Solomon Paul, the executive officer of the NNS Delta, handed the suspects to the representatives of the NSCDC on behalf of the commander, NNS Delta, Chindo Yahaya.

Addressing journalists, Mr Yahaya said the suspects were apprehended on September 17 at the Asugbo Creek in Warri South Local Government Area of the state.

He said the feat was made possible by the NNS Delta patrol team and staff of the Ocean Marine Solution (OMS), an accredited indigenous Nigerian maritime security solutions provider.

“The team searched the surrounding area and intercepted three persons in a canoe boat 20 metres away from the vandalised pipelines,“ he said.

The naval officer said the suspects attempted to escape but were intercepted and brought to the navy base, and after interrogation, they claimed to be fishermen.

He said fishing gear was not found with them, and neither did the patrol team observe fishing nets or hooks within the immediate environment they were apprehended.

Mr Yahaya added that the suspects could not explain why they attempted to escape and the whereabouts of their accomplice.

He said there was a need for a thorough investigation to ascertain those responsible for the illegal connection on the oil pipeline in Asugbo Creek for appropriate legal action.

Victor Igbinoba, divisional head officer, NSCDC in Warri South Local Government Area, received the suspects on behalf of the corps.

Mr Igbinoba promised that the suspects would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in line with the law.

(NAN)