Operatives from the Port Harcourt Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the activities of eight individuals suspected of engaging in oil theft within Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
This investigative action follows the handover of the suspects to the EFCC by the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base situated at Akiama Road, Bonny Island, Port Harcourt on Wednesday, January 10, 2024.
The Nigerian Navy revealed that the vessel, MV Cabrini, and its eight-member crew were apprehended during a coordinated operation on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. The arrests occurred in conjunction with the discovery of an undisclosed quantity of illegally acquired Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) along the Bonny Channel.
The identified suspects are Tyson Saidi, Emmanuel Memedo, Bamidele Owoeye, Sunday Okenwa, Sanusi Adeola, Kessen Friday, Miebaka Kienka, and Emmanuel Adewole.
Lieutenant Commander G.Y Gwaza, the Naval Hand-Over Officer, affirmed that the suspected oil thieves were formally transferred to the EFCC for further investigation and potential prosecution.
Upon receiving the suspects, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Itoro Levi, assured that a meticulous and professional investigation would be conducted in the matter. She also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their collaborative efforts with the EFCC in combating illicit activities.
