Nigerian Navy seizes 2,100 liters of petrol, apprehends suspects in smuggling attempt

The Nigerian Navy has apprehended two individuals suspected of attempting to steal and smuggle 2,100 liters of premium motor spirit (PMS) in the Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom.

The suspects were caught on January 24 during a routine patrol along the Mbo River.

The Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, Capt. Aliyu Abdullahi, revealed that the navy personnel intercepted a wooden boat carrying the petrol, which was cleverly concealed under items like bread, fruits, and bags of cassava flakes.

According to Abdullahi, the suspects intended to smuggle the fuel from Nigeria into the Republic of Cameroon.

Handing over the suspects and the seized goods to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) in Ibaka on Monday, Abdullahi emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to combatting maritime crimes under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla.

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“We shall continue to detect criminals and their activities within the nation’s waterways through the use of advanced surveillance equipment and intelligence,” he said. “Maritime crimes will not be allowed to persist in the waters and coastal areas of Akwa Ibom.”

He urged individuals or groups involved in smuggling or other criminal activities within Nigerian waters to cease immediately.

ASC Willie Emediong of the NSCDC, upon receiving the suspects and items, assured that the suspects would face prosecution following a thorough investigation into the matter.