The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State, has reported a successful interception and destruction of 15,775 litres of stolen crude oil in the Ilaje axis of the state. The operation conducted by the anti-Crude Oil Theft (COT) patrol team, under the leadership of Captain Wasuku Alushi, has dealt a significant blow to illegal bunkering activities in the region with an estimated value of N13,251,000.

Speaking on behalf of Captain Alushi, Commander Humphrey Nnaji emphasized that the destruction of the illicit products aligns with the mandate of the joint taskforce Operation Delta Safe on COT. The intelligence-led operation was initiated following reports of illegal bunkering within the Ilaje axis, leading to the tracking and interception of a wooden boat, locally known as a “Cotonou,” laden with stolen crude oil.

Commander Nnaji revealed, “The wooden boat was intercepted approximately 12 nautical miles (NM) off the coast of the adjoining Ojumole and Obe communities in the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. Upon the sighting of naval personnel, the illicit crew abandoned the boat and fled, evading capture.”

Reaffirming the base’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the menace of COT and other criminal activities in Igbokoda and its environs, Commander Nnaji reiterated the resolve to escalate surveillance efforts within the axis.