The Nigerian Navy Beecroft’s patrol team on Sunday thwarted an illegal bunkering activity and arrested seven suspects.
They were said to have been arrested on board a motor tanker, VIRGO I.
They were reportedly arrested with two wooden boats while transferring Premium Motor Spirit from the vessel into hundreds of 200-litre drums and 50-litre jerry cans.
The Commander, NNS Beecroft, Kolawale Oguntuga, while parading the suspects at the Naval Base parade ground, Apapa Lagos on Monday, said they would be handed over to appropriate authorities.
Oguntuga gave the names of the suspects as Freme Adio, Onore Akwaso, Isegbejii Deli, Kosi Pascal, Dao Sure, John Abel and Buga Noel
He said, “The Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft’s patrol team has once again displayed its unparalleled commitment to combating illegal bunkering with the successful apprehension of multiple vessels engaged in illegal bunkering that could have resulted in a shortage of products for distribution.
“In the early hours of August 27, 2023, the state-of-the-art technology, Falcon Eye Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, observed a clustering of boats around the Motor Tanker VIRGO 1, registered in Panama.
“On arrival at the crime scene situated approximately four nautical miles from Lagos Fair-Way Buoy, the patrol team discovered a network of unlawful bunkering activities. Two wooden boats, laden with hundreds of 200-litre drums and 50-litre jerry cans were found receiving PMS through hoses from MT VIRGO 1.”
