The Nigerian Navy announced on Wednesday the arrest of three suspects in Ibaka, located in the Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, as they attempted to transport 10,000 litres of petrol to neighbouring Cameroon, News About Nigeria reports.
Capt. Uche Aneke, the Commanding Officer of the Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka, disclosed that the suspects, along with the boat and the confiscated petrol, were handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ibaka.
According to Aneke, intelligence reports indicated that a boat was in the process of conveying petroleum products to the Republic of Cameroon while transiting through the waters under the jurisdiction of FOB Ibaka.
Upon receiving the report, gunboats from the base were dispatched to intercept and impound the vessel, which was found to be concealing 10,000 litres of petrol beneath bags and covered with tarpaulin.
“Intelligence report indicated that a boat was conveying petroleum products to the Republic of Cameroon while transiting within the waters under FOB Ibaka’s area of operation.
“Gunboats from the base on routine night patrol were directed to intercept and impound the boat carrying 10,000 litres of petrol concealed under bags and covered with tarpaulin and arrest the occupants,’’ Aneke said.
The commanding officer issued a stern warning to people and groups engaged in the illegal smuggling of petroleum products, cautioning them to cease their activities or face the full force of the law.
He noted that security agencies are committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and will not tolerate any form of illegal activity in the country’s coastal regions.
In response, Mr. Michael Asibor, the Head of NSCDC’s Anti-Vandalism Unit in Akwa Ibom, assured that the case would be diligently prosecuted.
