IBAKA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Emmanuel Ogalla, has announced the seizure of a large vessel carrying illegally refined fuel in Akwa Ibom State.
On April 1, 2025, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA intercepted a fiber boat in Gray Creek, Akwa Ibom State, discovering it to be laden with drums containing illegally refined Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as gasoline.
The following day, April 2, 2025, FOB IBAKA handed over three suspected crude oil thieves to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and potential prosecution.
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These actions highlight ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy to combat oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region, which has long been plagued by such activities. Oil theft and illegal refining not only cause significant economic losses for Nigeria but also contribute to environmental damage and instability in the region. The Navy’s operations are aimed at ensuring accountability and contributing to the security and economic stability of the region.
