The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into a group of 13 individuals suspected of engaging in oil theft.
These suspects, along with a vessel named MT SWEET MIRI, were apprehended by the Nigerian Navy for their alleged involvement in oil bunkering and Automatic Identification System (AIS) violations.
The EFCC, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos State, has taken custody of the suspects and the vessel for further investigation.
The suspects have been identified as Abu Smith, Pascal Anyafulu, David Ali, Mba Okpanu, Chukuma Friday Obiazi, Miye Victor, Richard Kofi, Monday Aidenagbon, Dele Olayemi, Boma Robinson, David George, Onos Edemefe, and Suleiman Aremu.
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The vessel, which was found to be carrying approximately 1,322 metric tonnes of a substance resembling crude oil, lacked the necessary documentation to justify its possession.
Moses Awolusi, the Head of the Extractive Industry Fraud Section (EIFS) at the EFCC, has assured the Nigerian Navy that both the suspects and the seized evidence will undergo thorough investigation and subsequent prosecution.
He also expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts between the EFCC and the Navy, highlighting the positive working relationship that has been established over the years.
This joint operation serves as a testament to the commitment of both agencies in combating economic and financial crimes related to the oil industry.
