Security Forces Intercept Three Vessels Carrying Suspected Stolen Crude Worth N4.2bn in Calabar

The Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), has intercepted three vessels loaded with suspected stolen crude oil valued at more than N4.2 billion in Calabar.

The task force commander, Olugbenga Oladipo, disclosed this while briefing journalists at NNS Victory on Saturday.

He said the operation began late on April 8, when troops acting on intelligence intercepted two vessels MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf in the Calabar/Akwa Ibom maritime area. The vessels were reportedly caught near a wellhead within the joint operations zone.

According to Oladipo, the vessels had a combined crew of 26 members. MT Mkpodu was allegedly caught siphoning crude oil and was found carrying about 480 metric tonnes, while MT Westaf had approximately 459 metric tonnes onboard.

Naval and air assets, including NNS Shere, NNS Ose, and a Nigerian Air Force helicopter, were deployed to support the operation. The helicopter provided aerial surveillance, while naval units secured the vessels and escorted them, along with their crews, to a naval facility in Calabar.

The commander added that a follow-up intelligence-led operation led to the interception of a third vessel, MT Stellos K, on April 10 by NNS Gongola for similar suspected activities.

Oladipo said the arrests demonstrate ongoing efforts by the Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Navy to combat crude oil theft through coordinated operations.

Also speaking, Chidozie Okehie, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, said authorities are currently tracking three additional vessels suspected to be involved in illegal activities in the region.

The suspects have since been paraded at the NNS Victory jetty, as authorities reaffirm their commitment to curbing oil theft and safeguarding critical oil and gas infrastructure.