The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into ten individuals suspected of involvement in illicit petroleum activities.
The suspects were apprehended aboard MT Queen Hansal Ship, which was found carrying 100 metric tonnes of petroleum products without the requisite license.
The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, handed over the ten suspects and the seized petroleum products to the EFCC following their arrest. Captain Uche Aneke, representing the Naval authorities during the handover, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to combating oil theft in Akwa Ibom State, ensuring that such criminal activities are deterred in the region.
Captain Aneke highlighted the suspicious behavior of the vessel MT Queen Hansal, particularly its disabling of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) while operating near the ExxonMobil oil field. Consequently, the Nigerian Navy apprehended the ship and its ten crew members on December 28, 2023, during an inspection, and brought them to base on December 30, 2023.
Deputy Superintendent of the EFCC, DSE Ayuba Zira, expressed gratitude to the Navy for their cooperation and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted. He emphasized the EFCC’s commitment to ensuring justice for all involved parties and underscored the agency’s collaboration with the Navy to sanitize the oil industry and waterways.
The EFCC’s swift action in launching an investigation into this matter highlights the agency’s dedication to combating economic crimes and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s oil sector. Such collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies are crucial in curbing illicit activities and maintaining security in vital industries.
