Navy Intercepts Boat With ‘10,000 Litres Of Petrol’, Arrests Three ‘Smugglers’ In Akwa Ibom

The Forward Operating Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Akwa Ibom says it has impounded a boat with 10,000 litres of petrol and arrested three suspects.

Uche Aneke, the commanding officer of the base, on Wednesday, said the suspects were apprehended on Monday, March 11, 2024, at Ibaka in Mbo LGA of Akwa Ibom.

Aneke said the suspects were allegedly ferrying 10,000 litres of petrol out of the state to Cameroon.

He handed the suspects, the boat, and the product to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ibaka for further action.

He added that an intelligence report indicated that a boat was conveying petroleum products to the Republic of Cameroon while transiting within the waters under FOB Ibaka’s area of operation.

“Gunboats from the Base on routine night patrol were directed to intercept and impound the boat carrying 10,000 litres of petrol concealed under bags and covered with tarpaulin and arrest the occupants,’’ Aneke said.

Aneke warned individuals and groups involved in illegal petroleum products smuggling to comply with the law or prepare to face the consequences of their acts when caught.

The commanding officer emphasised that security agencies would not condone illegal activities in the country’s coastal areas.

Michael Asibor, head of NSCDC’s anti-vandalism unit in the state, promised a thorough investigation of the case after receiving the suspects and the exhibits.