Nigerian Navy busts camp of suspected crude oil thieves, arrests two in Bonny

The Quick Response Team from the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base, Bonny, as part of Operation Delta Sanity, was involved in a firefight with suspected crude oil thieves in Elem-Akrakama and Elem-Tombia, Rivers State.

The suspects, armed and aboard two speedboats, attempted to flee to their camp, but were pursued by Navy personnel. Drone surveillance was activated, forcing the suspects to retreat into surrounding creeks.

The operation culminated in the destruction of the criminals’ camp and boats. One suspect was neutralized and two others were arrested and are currently under investigation. The items recovered include two outboard motors (200 and 140 horsepower) and two Motorola walkie-talkies, among others.

Operation Delta Sanity, launched by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, in January 2024, aims to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. The operation has seen multiple extensions due to its success, including notable achievements between April and July 2024, such as the arrest of 24 suspects, seizure of six vessels, decommissioning of 122 illegal refining sites, and destruction of 57 wooden vessels.

The recent successful interception by the Quick Response Team at Bonny highlights the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing efforts to restore order in the Niger Delta.

The Nigerian Navy reiterates its warning to those involved in crude oil theft and other illegal activities in Nigerian maritime space to desist and reiterates its commitment to maintaining security and order in the region.