The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into 13 individuals suspected of involvement in oil theft, alongside a vessel named MT SWEET MIRI. This development follows the transfer of custody of the vessel and suspects to the EFCC by the Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos State.
The identified suspects are Abu Smith, Pascal Anyafulu, David Ali, Mba Okpanu, Chukuma Friday Obiazi, Miye Victor, Richard Kofi, Monday Aidenagbon, Dele Olayemi, Boma Robinson, David George, Onos Edemefe, and Suleiman Aremu.
The vessel and its crew were apprehended on February 27, 2024, by Nigerian Navy officers for suspected involvement in illegal oil bunkering activities and violations of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) regulations. Notably, the vessel was found to be carrying approximately 1,322 metric tonnes of substance resembling crude oil without the requisite documentation.
Upon receiving custody of the suspects, vessel, and confiscated substance on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, Moses Awolusi, Head of the Extractive Industry Fraud Section (EIFS) within the EFCC, pledged to subject the individuals and evidence to thorough investigation and eventual prosecution. He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their collaborative efforts with the EFCC and emphasized the longstanding positive relationship between the two agencies.
It is anticipated that the suspects will face legal proceedings once the EFCC concludes its investigations, underscoring the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combatting economic crimes within the nation.
