Ahead of the yuletide period, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has launched Operation Water Guard to combat maritime-related crimes on Nigerian waterways.
The patrol team in a series of seizures intercepted a large fibre boat containing over 90 drums of 250 litres each of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) near the Ijegun community while the NNS BEECROFT patrol team and the maritime component of Operation AWATSE also thwarted an illegal bunkering activity at Folu Village in Ibeju Lekki, a town along the boundary between Lagos and Ogun States.
According to a statement issued recently by the NNS BEECROFT Base Information Officer, Sub-Lieutenant Happiness Collins, he disclosed that the arrest was made in the early hours of November 11, 2023.
Read Also: Navy Nabs Eight Suspected Crude Oil Thieves With 300 Drums
The statement said the PMS, totalling approximately 22,500 litres is valued at about N15 million.
Commander NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, was quoted as saying that his team acted on credible intelligence and discovered the vessel abandoned near the Ijegun community.
He said the perpetrators, upon sighting the naval team, fled.
“In a remarkable feat under the ongoing Operation WATER GUARD, NNS BEECROFT’s patrol team successfully intercepted and seized a large fibre boat transporting illegally obtained Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in the early hours of November 11, 2023.
“The confiscated boat contained over 90 drums of 250L each of PMS, totaling approximately 22,500 liters and valued at about N15m at current pump price.
“The prevention of illicit acquisition of such volatile products does not only curb economic sabotage but also prevents the outbreak of fire which may have dire consequences on life and property.
“This proactive operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s unweaving commitment under the leadership of The Chief of The Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla to safeguarding the nation’s petroleum resources for the benefit of Nigerians” the statement said.
