The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two wooden boats conveying illegally mined black sand, and arrested 13 suspects in Bayelsa State.

The Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, said this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

Mr Folorunsho said that with the operation, the navy had recorded another operational success in its efforts to curb illegal exploitation of natural resources.

According to him, the operation was conducted by Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO, following credible intelligence on the movement of boats suspected to be involved in illegal mining activities.

He said that the intelligence revealed that the boats were operating within the coastal communities of Brass Local Government Area.

He stated, “Acting on the intelligence, naval personnel intercepted the boats at Lekeson and Liama communities, where large quantities of suspectedcnd were discovered onboard. A total of 13 crew members were arrested in connection with the activity.”

The director of naval information said that the successful operation underscored the navy’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and preventing the illegal exploitation of natural resources that undermine economic development and environmental sustainability.

“The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in sustaining operations against illegal resource extraction and other maritime crimes, while maintaining security and stability within the nation’s waterways,” he said.

Mr Folorunsho also said that the two wooden boats, recovered black sand and the 13 suspects have subsequently been handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Nembe Division, for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He said this was done in line with the extant procedures and directives of the Bayelsa Government.

The naval spokesperson reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime resources.

He assured that it would also ensure that the nation’s waterways remain safe and secure for legitimate economic activities.

(NAN)