The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft with the arrest of nine suspected oil thieves intercepted during an illegal bunkering operation offshore Akwa Ibom State.
The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and prosecution, reinforcing ongoing inter-agency efforts to combat economic sabotage in Nigeria’s maritime domain.
According to a statement issued by naval authorities, the suspects were apprehended on February 23, 2026, at the Asabo Field during a coordinated operation involving Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Jubilee, NNS Bonny, and NNS Shiroko. The operation targeted illegal activities around offshore oil installations.
The Navy disclosed that the suspects were caught attempting to siphon crude oil from an offshore platform using a wooden boat. The vessel and other equipment used for the operation were seized as exhibits.
Speaking during a press briefing, the Commander of NNS Jubilee, Commodore Mohammed Abubakar Manga, reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to tackle maritime crimes through sustained patrols, intelligence-led operations, and enhanced collaboration with relevant security and law enforcement agencies.
He explained that the successful operation aligns with the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s economic assets and curbing crude oil theft in the country’s territorial waters.
Commodore Manga also issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes to desist, stressing that the Navy remained committed to protecting the nation’s maritime resources.
The suspects and recovered exhibits were formally handed over to the EFCC on February 25, 2026, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
