The Nigeria Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State, over the weekend conducted a successful operation against illegal bunkering and oil theft, destroying 15,775 liters of crude oil and illegally refined automotive gas oil.
The operation, valued at approximately N13,251,000 naira, was carried out in adherence to the Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe mandate on Crude Oil Theft (COT).
Commander Humphrey Nnaji, the Executive Officer of the Base, revealed that the anti-crude oil theft patrol team acted on credible intelligence, intercepting a wooden boat laden with crude oil about 12 nautical miles off the coast of Ojumole and Obe communities in Ilaje local government area. The boat’s crew abandoned ship upon sighting naval personnel.
Emphasizing the Base’s commitment to combating illegal bunkering, Commander Wasuku Alushi, the Commanding Officer, highlighted the Base’s role as a force multiplier for the Western Naval Command. He stated that FOB Igbokoda operates under the leadership of Rear Admiral MB Hassan, focusing on Anti-Crude Oil Theft and illegal bunkering.
Commander Alushi detailed recent achievements, including the interception and destruction of a wooden boat with 2,000 liters of suspected illegally refined crude products at Awoye on October 23, 2023. Additionally, an illegal storage site with 5,000 liters of illegal petroleum oil products at Ugbo-Nla was discovered and destroyed on October 18. The Base also dismantled an illegal refining site at Obe-Akinboye in Obenla community on October 27.
Assuring the community of Igbokoda, Commander Alushi conveyed the Base’s dedication to eradicating criminal activities, providing a secure environment for citizens, and supporting unhindered economic activities.
