Operatives of the Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base, Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have arrested eight suspected smugglers with 112 drums of Premium Motor Spirit.
The suspects were in wooden boat around the Agbani trying to cross over to Cameroon.
The Commanding Officer, Navy Capt. Peter Yilme, confirmed this in Ibaka while handing over the suspects and seized items to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
He said each of the seized drums has the capacity to carry 300 litres of petrol.
Yilme reiterated the base’s commitment to zero tolerance for the illegal exportation of petroleum product, adding that it would not stop arresting persons who engaged in illegal activities on the waterways.
He commended the effort of operatives of the Base for their gallant spirit in the fight against illegalities and urged them not to relent.
“On 5 Dec 19, FOB Ibaka gunboats while on routine patrol around Agbani FPSO accosted and arrested a medium sized wooden boat carrying 112 drums of PMS with capacity of each drum at 300 litres.
“Additionally, 8 suspects were arrested along with the boat and drums. The boat was suspected to be heading towards the Republic of Cameroon when it was arrested.
“FOB Ibaka has zero tolerance for the exportation of petroleum product, and will continue to arrest persons who engage in illegal activities in line with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff,” he stated.
The Divisional Officer of NSCDC in Mbo local government area, Mr Udeme James received the suspects and items from the Navy and assured that the suspects would be prosecuted.
He commended the base for their effort in ensuring that Ibaka waterways was safe from illegal smugglers and all forms of illegalities.
