The Nigerian Navy’s Quick Response Team from the Forward Operating Base BONNY has arrested dozens of suspected oil thieves and destroyed their camp after a gun battle in Rivers State.
The confrontation, part of the ongoing Operation DELTA SANITY, underscored the Navy’s commitment to eradicating illegal activities in the Niger Delta region.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, July 21, 2024, resulted in the destruction of the criminals’ camp and boats during the crackdown on their illicit activities.
According to a statement by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information in Abuja, the suspects, who were armed and traveling in two speedboats, attempted to flee upon sighting the Navy team.
The suspects diverted into their camp, but the Nigerian Navy personnel, utilizing drone surveillance for situational awareness, pursued them, forcing the suspects to retreat into the surrounding creeks.
The engagement led to the neutralization of one suspect, the arrest of two others, and the recovery of several items, including two outboard engines (200 and 140 Horse Power) and two Motorola walkie-talkie radios.
The arrested suspects are currently undergoing investigation.
Operation Delta Sanity, launched by Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff in January 2024, aimed to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta Region.
The operation has seen the deployment of additional personnel, platforms, helicopters, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for aggressive surveillance and interdiction operations.
“Due to its successes, the operation was extended in April and again in July 2024. Between April and July 2024, the operation led to the arrest of 24 suspects, the capture of six vessels, the deactivation of 122 illegal refinery sites, and the destruction of 57 wooden boats.
The recent success by the Quick Response Team of FOB BONNY is one of many effective interdiction operations conducted by the Nigerian Navy in the Niger Delta”, Adams-Aliu stated.
The Navy warned that individuals involved in crude oil theft and other illegal activities in Nigeria’s maritime space will face relentless action as efforts to restore order and sanity in the Niger Delta Region continue.