Illegal Oil Bunkering: Navy Intercepts Large Boat With 205 Drums Of Products Suspected To Be Petrol In Lagos

A large boat suspected to be engaged in illegal bunkering was intercepted by the Nigerian Navy patrol team under the Commander, NNS Beecroft, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga.

Naija News gathered that the intercepted boat contained 205 drums of substance suspected to be Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and other products.

The suspect in the boat reportedly fled when they sighted the navy’s patrol team.

The Nigerian Navy in a statement on Friday disclosed that its ship, Beecroft patrol team, intercepted an illegal oil bunkering activity within the Igboelejo community area of Lagos State.

In the statement issued by the Base Information Officer, Sub Lieutenant HA Collins, the navy explained that the operation was following an intelligent report from its informants.

It said “The Nigerian Navy ship, BEECROFT patrol team in a decisive response to intelligence received on 5th October 2023 through the Falcon Eye Alignment thwarted an illegal bunkering activity within the Igboelejo community area of Lagos State.

“The patrol team vectored to the specified area and apprehended a large blue fibre boat suspected to be engaged in illegal bunkering. The vessel contains 205 drums of a substance suspected to be Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and other products. Regrettably, the perpetrators abandoned the boat and fled upon sighting our patrol team.

“The NNS BEECROFT patrol team acted with precision, securing the vessel and promptly transporting it to the base. Investigation and necessary actions to ensure appropriate handling of the incident are ongoing.

“This operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, to sustain maritime security and to eradicate illicit activities as well as activities that could trigger fire hazards in coastal communities and within our maritime domain.

“The Nigerian Navy again appeals to the general public to provide information necessary to nib catastrophe incidents in the bud as the service remains steadfast in its mission to maintain a safe and secure maritime environment for the prosperity of our dear nation.”