The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has revealed the discovery of an illicit fuel depot holding approximately 65,000 litres of Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) in Lagos.
Commander Rafiu Taye Oladejo of NNS Beecroft disclosed this development while addressing the press in Lagos, shedding light on the operation that unfolded following credible intelligence received by the naval unit regarding suspicious activities occurring at Elegushi Beach.
The swift deployment of NNS Beecroft’s Quick Response Team to the specified location led to the apprehension of five suspects, including the alleged ringleader, Mr Ahmed Ariyo, along with four others found at No. 3 Silverbird Road, Ilasun Lekki, where they purportedly conducted their illicit operations from a private apartment.
Oladejo detailed the contents of the illegal depot, which comprised eight storage tanks, each with a capacity of 50,000 litres, containing an estimated 57,000 litres of AGO.
Additionally, a tanker loaded with approximately 7,000 litres and a bus carrying 30 jerry cans, holding about 1,500 litres, were seized.
The calculated value of the confiscated products amounts to roughly N89 million, based on the prevailing price of AGO at ₦1,350 per litre.
Furthermore, Oladejo outlined the potential capacity of the storage facility, indicating that if fully stocked, the eight tanks could hold up to 400,000 litres, valued at approximately N500 million.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects likely acquired the products through various illicit means, including pipeline vandalism and illegal trading activities along the coastline.
Reaffirming NNS Beecroft’s unwavering commitment to combatting oil theft and other maritime crimes, Oladejo echoed directives from Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu.
He assured law-abiding citizens of the naval unit’s dedication to eradicating all forms of maritime criminality, thereby fostering a conducive environment for socioeconomic activities within the Lagos maritime domain.
Subsequently, the apprehended suspects, along with the confiscated products and facility, were handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and possible prosecution.
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