The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has launched an investigation into a vessel arrested by the Nigerian Navy for allegedly transporting illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Bayelsa State.
The vessel, identified as Bravo Alero, was intercepted by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) FORMOSSO in Brass, Bayelsa State.
In a statement posted on the Commission’s official X account on Friday, the EFCC confirmed that operatives from its Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate had begun the investigation.
“Operatives of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have commenced an investigation of a vessel: Bravo Alero suspected to belong to oil thieves in the Niger Delta area,” the statement read.
The vessel, which was carrying 200 liters of products suspected to be illegally refined AGO, was handed over to the EFCC by the Navy for further investigation and prosecution.
The commanding officer of NNS FORMOSSO, Captain Ifeanyichukwu Mabeokwu, expressed his confidence in the EFCC’s ability to investigate the vessel and take appropriate legal action thoroughly.
He also pledged continued collaboration with the EFCC in combating illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region.
Receiving the vessel on behalf of the EFCC, Chief Superintendent Shittu Babatunde assured the Navy of a prompt and professional investigation into the case.
The EFCC remains committed to addressing illegal oil-related activities in the region through rigorous enforcement and prosecution efforts.
