The Uyo Zonal Office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has assumed control of an investigation into three individuals suspected of illegal crude oil trading without a license. The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Forward Operating Base Ibaka handed the suspects over to the EFCC on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The suspects, identified as Victory Smart Bassey, Ita Okon, and Michael Akpa, were arrested on November 5, 2024, by Navy officers on patrol along the Ibeno waterways. They were found aboard a wooden boat carrying approximately 60,000 liters of suspected crude oil stored in 12 plastic G-PEE tanks.
At the handover, Lieutenant Commander O. Okaula, Base Operating Officer, emphasized the Navy’s commitment to securing waterways to bolster economic stability and national development. “The Navy’s mandate includes ensuring waterway security to support economic activities,” he stated, formally transferring custody of the suspects and evidence to the EFCC.
Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, ASE1 Adetona Taiwo, who represented the Acting Zonal Director, ACE1 Oshodi Johnson, expressed appreciation for the Navy’s partnership. Taiwo confirmed that the EFCC would conduct a thorough investigation and promptly prosecute the suspects if sufficient evidence is found.
