According to him, on sighting the naval team, the suspects manning the boat fled into the creeks in an accompanying speedboat, evading arrest.
Mr Usman said the discovery was made possible through “a robust intelligence network” and the vigilance of naval personnel.
Mr Usman said the navy uncovered nine illegal refining sites at the Obenla community in the Ilaje LGA.
“We at NANTA mourn this great legal icon and tourism lover.’’
The navy fingered Tantita Security Service in “these illegalities because Awoye riverine area, which is close to the place of arrest, is covered by TSS.”
Mr Wanlele was arrested by the navy following an intel to his alleged criminal activities in Igbokoda town.
Goke Jatuwase, chairman, Ilaje LGA, told journalists on Monday that the exercise was imperative to check recurring flooding in the area.
Tosin Ikuemolo, 22, and six other prisoners had escaped after they dug the pipe of a toilet, with help of a Hausa man among them.
The association said the destruction caused by sea incursion resulted from crude oil exploration.
