Daud Olatunji
In a significant stride against crude oil theft, the Nigerian Navy (NN) revealed yesterday that its operations in 2023 resulted in the apprehension of 23 ships, over 233 suspects, and 690 wooden boats engaged in the illicit trade.
Additionally, the Navy reported the destruction of 703 illegal refining sites, marking a crucial blow to criminal activities in the maritime domain.
Rear Admiral A.O. Ayo-Vaughan, the Director of Information, disclosed that the crackdown extended beyond vessels, with tens of barges, 82 vehicles, and tanker trucks seized during the operations.
The confiscated crude oil and petroleum products, valued at over N105 billion, underscored the economic impact of the illicit activities.
All arrested suspects are currently in the custody of prosecuting agencies, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to combatting crude oil theft with renewed vigor in 2024.
Ayo-Vaughan expressed concern over a campaign by certain individuals and organizations seeking to undermine the Navy’s efforts, alleging the use of third-party agents and sectional egoists to discredit the reinvigorated stance of the NN in the fight against crude oil theft.
Ayo-Vaughan defended the Navy’s visible efforts, highlighting an increase in oil production over the last six months, as reported by relevant authorities and the media.
He stated, “Suffice to state that the NN, in the discharge of her statutory responsibilities as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will continue to work tirelessly for the betterment of the nation’s maritime security.”
The Director of Information affirmed the Navy’s history of harmonious collaboration with maritime stakeholders nationally, regionally, and internationally.
He acknowledged the involvement of private maritime stakeholders in protecting critical onshore economic assets, provided professionalism and standard operating procedures were strictly upheld.
Ayo-Vaughan denounced allegations to the contrary as a “complete fallacy,” emphasizing the NN’s role in galvanizing legitimate maritime interests.
He pointed to various past and ongoing operations and exercises, including Dakatar Da Barawo, Calm Waters, Nchekwe Oshimili, and Exercise Sea Guardian, designed to curb maritime criminalities and oil theft.
Under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Navy remains resolute against malicious propaganda.
Ayo-Vaughan affirmed that sponsored campaigns of calumny would not deter the NN from carrying out its constitutionally enshrined roles in the interest of the national economy.
He urged the public to dismiss what he termed as “highly unpatriotic publications” and reiterated the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment.
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