The Nigerian Navy says it will continue to collaborate with relevant industry players in the fight against crude oil theft in the country.
Commanding Officer, Forward Operating Base, Navy Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, gave the assurance while handing over a vessel arrested along with 11 crew members to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for further investigation and prosecution in Bonny Island, Rivers State, South-South Nigeria.
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The activities of oil thieves, besides the quantum loss to the national treasury, is also taking a huge toll on the environment.
In keeping with its mandate of securing the country’s maritime environment, the Nigerian Navy said that it remains ready and committed to tackling oil theft on the country’s coastal belt.
Handing over the vessel, MT Preye One, arrested with its 11 crew members to the EFCC, Commodore Oguntuga noted that the Nigerian Navy is working closely with key interest groups in the fight against economic sabotage.
Having taken custody of the vessel and suspects, the EFCC said that the suspects, if found culpable, would have their day in court.
