The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against crude oil theft, arresting two vessels—MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf AF—loaded with over 939 metric tons of suspected stolen crude oil valued at more than ₦4 billion.
The operation, which also led to the arrest of 26 crew members, was revealed during a press briefing in Calabar by Olugbenga Oladipo, Commander of the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe.
According to Oladipo, the successful mission was driven by credible intelligence received in the early hours of April 8. Acting swiftly, naval forces intercepted the vessels at a wellhead within the Calabar/Akwa Ibom operational zone, where illegal siphoning activities were reportedly ongoing. One of the vessels, MT Mkpodu, was caught in the act.
The operation involved coordinated support from top security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Defence Staff. Naval assets such as NNS SHERE and a naval helicopter were deployed, providing real-time surveillance and securing the vessels offshore.
Further assistance from NNS OSE and personnel at Forward Operating Base Ibaka ensured the safe transfer of the suspects and vessels to the naval base in Calabar.
In a related development, Oladipo disclosed that another vessel, MT Steliosk, was intercepted on April 10, reinforcing ongoing efforts to clamp down on oil theft in Nigeria’s waters.
He emphasized that these operations highlight the military’s strong commitment to protecting national resources and tackling economic sabotage through strategic collaboration.
Also speaking, Chidozie Okehie, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, commended the efforts of the task force and reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining the crackdown on illegal activities in the region.
News Agency of Nigeria
(NAN).
