POLITICAL Economy

Nigerian Navy Intercepts Vessel Over Oil Theft Akwa Ibom

by admin on | 2026-07-26 16:15:56

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Nigerian Navy Intercepts Vessel Over Oil Theft Akwa Ibom

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama, Abuja

The Nigerian Navy has successfully intercepted a vessel that is reportedly involved in the illicit siphoning of fuel oil and crude oil in Akwa Ibom State.

This operation took place as part of Operation DELTA SENTINEL and resulted in the arrest of 12 crew members, along with the seizure of substantial quantities of suspected stolen petroleum products.

According to a statement from the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the interception was executed following credible intelligence derived from the Nigerian Navy's surveillance systems and continuous monitoring by naval platforms assigned to Operation DELTA SENTINEL. 

The vessel, identified as MT FILIA, was intercepted at the UTUE Terminal in Akwa Ibom while allegedly siphoning crude oil from an oil well terminal jacket.

Preliminary investigations have indicated that the vessel was carrying approximately 32.82 metric tonnes of fuel oil and 650 metric tonnes of crude oil without the requisite documentation or lawful authorisation. 

The vessel, its 12-member crew, and the confiscated cargo have been placed in custody for further investigation and potential prosecution.

In his commendation of the personnel involved, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, acknowledged their professionalism, vigilance, and commitment. 

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy's determination to eradicate crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other maritime crimes that jeopardise Nigeria's economy and national security.

Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted that Operation DELTA SENTINEL has achieved significant outcomes through intelligence-driven operations, ongoing surveillance, and collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders. 

The Navy reported that between April and June 2026, Operation DELTA SENTINEL recovered over 4.7 million litres of petroleum products, dismantled more than 58 illegal refining sites, destroyed over 239 dugout pits and 13 refining ovens, and apprehended over 91 individuals associated with crude oil theft.

These achievements are congruent with Nigeria's crude oil production increasing to 1.89 million barrels per day in July 2026, surpassing the country’s OPEC production quota. 

The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding essential oil and gas infrastructure, promoting increased crude oil production, and ensuring a secure maritime environment. 

Additionally, the Navy encourages the public to provide credible information that may assist security agencies in combating crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.