Nigerian Navy operations uncover illegal oil bunkering facility, rescue fishermen, seize cannabis

The Nigerian Navy announced the discovery of an illegal oil bunkering facility, the rescue of four fishermen, and the seizure of 56 bags of cannabis within the nation’s maritime domain.

Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, Director of Naval Information, disclosed these developments in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Adams-Aliu reported that the Quick Response Team of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder uncovered the illegal oil bunkering facility in Okwuzi, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers. The discovery was made under Operation Delta Sanity and led to the apprehension of two suspects involved in the illegal activities.

“Approximately 68,000 liters of illegally refined diesel were found stored in containers, sacks, drums, and tanks within the facility,” Adams-Aliu stated. “Pumping machines, hoses, and outboard engines were also discovered on-site.”

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Investigations are ongoing to identify the owners of the facility and their collaborators.

In a separate incident, personnel from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry rescued four Ghanaian fishermen who were drowning about 10 nautical miles from Lagos Fairway Buoy. Their boat had capsized around 9:40 p.m. due to rough seas.

Additionally, the Quick Response Team of NNS Beecroft intercepted a wooden boat carrying 56 bags of cannabis at Moba Beach, Badagry. The team is actively trailing the suspects and expects to apprehend them soon.

Adams-Aliu emphasized the Navy’s commitment to maintaining safe and secure waterways under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. He urged criminals and economic saboteurs to avoid the nation’s territorial waters.