The Nigerian Navy has apprehended three individuals linked to the alleged falsification of naval approval for the shipment of 150,000 gallons of suspected contaminated diesel.
The Commander of Nigeria Navy Ship Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, disclosed this during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Igbo explained that the suspects had presented a forged NNS Pathfinder oil approval to the vessel MV Mother Gabrini, with one of them posing as a navy officer.
The incident came to light on November 8 when troops from the Forward Operating Base Bonny arrested MV Mother Gabrini for suspected illegal bunkering activities.
“During preliminary investigation, the crew presented a fake NNS Pathfinder oil approval, which necessitated the base to spring into action to apprehend the persons involved in the forging of our approval,” Igbo stated.
Following a week-long intelligence-led operation, the three suspects were successfully apprehended at different locations.
Igbo highlighted that the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, had emphasized the need for troops to eliminate all forms of illegal activities in the nation’s marine environment.
The naval commander expressed concern over the increasing use of forged approvals by thieves engaged in illegal oil activities to transport petroleum products undetected through the waterways.
During the operation, troops discovered two sets of camouflage uniforms, other military attire, and incriminating items at one of the suspect’s residence.
Commodore Igbo reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to taking decisive action against oil thieves and illegal bunkerers, urging individuals involved in such illicit activities to desist.
The suspects are now in custody and will face legal consequences for their alleged involvement in the falsification of naval oil approvals.
