The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Uyo Directorate has commenced investigations into nine suspected oil thieves for allegedly dealing in petroleum products illegally.
EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale issued a statement on Sunday in Abuja announcing this development.
Officers of the Nigerian Navy Ship Forward Operating Base Ibaka arrested the suspects on Feb. 23 at the Asabo Oilfield in the Qua Iboe Field area of Akwa Ibom.
The Navy handed the suspects over to the EFCC on Feb. 25 for further investigation.
Oyewole explained that, during the handover of the suspects, Commodore Mohammed Manga, Commanding Officer, said the suspects were caught conveying four Geepee Tanks. These tanks were filled with petroleum products. Manga added that the products appeared to be crude oil mixed with water. The suspects transported them using a wooden boat. Other items were also recovered from the suspects.
These included four outboard engines, three pumping machines, four mobile phones, and two power banks. He added that the Uyo Zonal Director of the EFCC, Mr Oshodi Johnson, commended the Navy for its persistence in stopping illegal oil bunkering in Nigeria.
Oyewole said the Zonal Director also thanked the Navy for collaborating with the EFCC to combat economic sabotage and promised to investigate and, if necessary, prosecute the suspects quickly.