The Nigerian Navy announced that its troops from Operation Delta Sanity, based at the Forward Operating Base in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, intercepted a wooden boat carrying drums of illegally refined petroleum products en route to Cameroon.
In a statement posted on its verified Facebook page on Sunday, the Navy detailed the operation’s success. The interception took place on Saturday, May 18, 2024. The statement read:
“Operation Delta Sanity: On Saturday, 18 May 2024, Forward Operating Base Ibaka intercepted a wooden boat laden with drums of illegally refined PMS carefully concealed among some building materials and household items bound for the Republic of Cameroon.”
During the operation, two suspects were apprehended and are currently detained. The Nigerian Navy plans to hand them over to the relevant authorities in Akwa Ibom State for further investigation and prosecution.
This interception is part of the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy to curb illegal activities and smuggling in the Niger Delta region. The operation aims to enhance maritime security and prevent the illicit trade of petroleum products, which poses significant economic and environmental threats.
The successful interception underscores the Navy’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s maritime borders and ensuring that resources are not siphoned off illegally.
