Nigerian Navy Arrests Vessel, Crew Over Crude Oil Theft Allegations

The Nigerian Navy has arrested a vessel and its crew over alleged involvement in crude oil theft at Utue Terminal, Akwa Ibom State.

According to Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the MT FILIA was intercepted on Thursday while siphoning stolen crude oil from an oil well terminal jacket by naval operatives of Operation DELTA SENTINEL.

The vessel, carrying 32.82 metric tonnes of fuel oil and 650 metric tonnes of crude oil without required documentation or lawful authorization, has been taken into custody for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with existing laws.

Nigerian Navy's Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, commended the professionalism, vigilance, and commitment of the personnel involved in the operation.