On Tuesday, a vessel found carrying oil cargo without proper documentation and approvals was handed over by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Warri.
The vessel, named TUG MV STEPH I, was arrested on July 6, 2023, at KFT Yard Edjeba along NPA Expressway in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.
Representing Commodore Chindo Yahaya, the Commander of NNS Delta, Navy Commander Samuel Musa formally handed over the vessel to EFCC officials led by Assistant Commander II of EFCC Benin Zonal Command, Gomina Francis.
The Navy explained that the vessel was caught discharging a product suspected to be Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) into unauthorized rubber tanks, lacking the necessary documentation and approvals.
Consequently, the vessel was detained and taken to NNS Delta. To ensure a thorough investigation and further action, the vessel was handed over to the EFCC.
In addition, a barge named SIMI was also handed over to the EFCC. The barge, carrying approximately 120,000 liters of product suspected to be AGO, was arrested on the same day as TUG MV STEPH I, at Workson Jetty Edjeba, along NPA Expressway in Warri South LGA.
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Similar to the vessel, the barge was found without necessary documentation and approvals. Preliminary investigations revealed that the product was accumulated remnants onboard from various vessels.
The Nigerian Navy emphasized its commitment to eliminating illegal activities within its operational area. They issued a warning to those with intentions of engaging in such activities, urging them to desist from such actions.
The handover of these vessels to the EFCC highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating illegal operations and ensuring adherence to proper procedures in the Nigerian maritime sector. The EFCC will lead detailed investigations into the vessels and take appropriate actions based on their findings.
