The sector commander, Anthony Uga, gave the advice on Friday in Ota, Ogun.
“The Nigeria Navy has put everything on the ground to ensure that it curbs illegal crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.”
The 16 suspected oil thieves were involved in illegal refining of crude oil to produce diesel.
Mr Irabor attributed the peace at coastal communities across the country to the doggedness of officers of the navy.
“You heard about how criminals go about attacking military zones, killing personnel and carting away weapons, so we have to secure our base.”
One of the wives to the deceased military administrator is seeking to be declared as the sole widow.
