The Nigerian Navy in Delta State apprehended two individuals suspected of involvement in pipeline vandalism near Asugbo Creek in Warri South Local Government Area. The suspects were paraded by the Navy, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities in the region.
The operation was carried out by a naval patrol team in collaboration with personnel from the private surveillance firm, Ocean Marine Solution. The joint team made the arrests on a Sunday afternoon at approximately 2:35 p.m. when they stumbled upon a vandalized and leaking pipeline during their patrol.
Upon closer inspection, the patrol team discovered an illegal connection to the compromised pipeline. Acting swiftly, the team expanded its search and eventually intercepted three individuals traveling in a canoe, located about 20 meters from the site of the damaged pipeline.
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However, upon seeing the approaching naval operatives, three individuals attempted to evade capture. Although one managed to escape, the authorities successfully apprehended the other two.
The arrested suspects claimed to be fishermen, but their explanation raised suspicions as no fishing equipment, such as nets or hooks, was found in their possession or the immediate vicinity.
Due to the lack of a convincing explanation for their attempted escape and the whereabouts of the third individual who escaped, the Nigerian Navy deemed it necessary to conduct a thorough investigation to identify those responsible for the illegal connection to the oil pipeline along Asugbo Creek. This investigation aims to take appropriate legal action against those involved.
Following their apprehension, the two suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and potential prosecution.
The Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, Commodore Chindo Yahaya, emphasized the commitment to combat crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Delta creeks. He underscored that those involved in such criminal activities would not be treated leniently, in line with the Chief of the Naval Staff Strategic Directive 2023 – 6.
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