CurrentReport Blog In a significant move against illegal oil activities, the Nigerian Navy, through its Forward Operating Base in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, successfully intercepted a wooden boat laden with drums of illegally refined petroleum products heading towards Cameroon. This operation was part of the ongoing efforts under “Operation Delta Sanity.”
The interception took place on Saturday, May 18, 2024, as disclosed in a statement on the Nigerian Navy’s verified Facebook page on Sunday. The statement highlighted the meticulous efforts of the troops involved in the operation.
According to the Nigerian Navy, the boat was carefully loaded with drums of illegally refined Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed among building materials and household items. This strategic concealment indicates the sophistication of the smuggling tactics used by the perpetrators. However, the vigilance and expertise of the Navy personnel ensured that the contraband did not reach its intended destination in Cameroon.
The operation led to the arrest of two suspects who were onboard the intercepted vessel. The Nigerian Navy has detained the suspects and plans to hand them over to the relevant authorities in Akwa Ibom State for further investigation and prosecution. This decisive action underscores the Navy’s commitment to curbing illegal refining and smuggling activities in the Niger Delta region.
Operation Delta Sanity is one of the Nigerian Navy’s initiatives aimed at maintaining security and stability in the maritime domain of the Niger Delta. The operation focuses on disrupting the activities of oil thieves, smugglers, and other criminal elements that threaten the region’s economic and environmental well-being.
