Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Agency Report
Published on 2024-02-24 18:20:05
A collaborative effort between the Nigerian Navy and the Cameroonian Navy recently resulted in the interception of a vessel carrying 30,000 liters of crude oil, believed to have been stolen from Nigeria. Commander Rotimi Oderemi of the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Victory, provided details of the operation during the inspection of the vessel, MV Jasmine, in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State.
According to Mr. Oderemi, the vessel was located within Nigerian territorial waters through credible intelligence and cooperation with the Eastern Naval Command Centre. A Nigerian Navy patrol boat, NNS Ekulu, was deployed to intercept the vessel and question its crew.
Upon sighting NNS Ekulu, the suspected vessel attempted to flee to international waters between Nigeria and Cameroon. However, with the collaboration and support of the Cameroonian Navy, the vessel was apprehended and brought to Ibaka, where eight Nigerians were found on board.
The intercepted vessel was carrying 30,000 liters of crude oil, a substantial quantity valued at N40 million in the international crude oil market. Mr. Oderemi emphasized that this operation should serve as a warning to potential criminals operating in Nigeria’s waters, as the Navy is dedicated to thwarting their illegal activities.
The captain of the intercepted vessel, Pere-Ebiye Abraham, acknowledged ownership and confessed that he engaged in illegal bunkering due to financial hardship. He revealed that after his legitimate business of ferrying planks dwindled, he resorted to transporting crude oil illegally.
Abraham further explained that he had obtained the crude oil near the Babangida Platform on the high seas and was en route to an illegal refinery in the creeks when intercepted by the Navy. These revelations shed light on the challenges faced by individuals driven to commit illegal activities as a means of survival.
The interception of the vessel and the arrest of its crew members underscore the importance of maritime security and the enforcement of laws to combat oil theft and other illicit activities in Nigeria’s waters. The collaborative effort between the Nigerian and Cameroonian Navies demonstrates the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in safeguarding maritime resources and preventing criminal enterprises.
In conclusion, this joint operation serves as a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain and deter illegal activities that pose a threat to national security and economic stability. The Nigerian Navy’s commitment to upholding maritime security and curtailing illegal bunkering is crucial in safeguarding the country’s resources and promoting lawful maritime activities.
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