EFCC Launches Investigation Into Alleged Oil Theft Syndicate In Akwa Ibom State

The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Tuesday that it has apprehended eight individuals suspected of involvement in illicit oil trading activities. According to a report by Naija News, these suspects were detained aboard the MV Jasmine and are currently under scrutiny for operating without the required licenses for handling petroleum products.

This development stems from their arrest by the Nigerian Navy Ship Forward Operating Base Ibaka in Akwa Ibom on February 23, 2024. Following the arrest, the suspects were handed over to the EFCC by the Commanding Officer, Captain (NN) Uche Aneke, on April 3, 2024.

Dele Oyewale, the EFCC’s head of media and publicity, disclosed that the crew members were discovered with an estimated 30,000 litres of suspected crude oil. The illicit petroleum product was concealed in a sealed compartment within the wooden boat and in four additional Geepee tanks.

The identified suspects include Pere Ebiye (Captain), Okon David (DeckMan), Enuwa Wilson (Cook), Wesley Okon (DeckMan), Ade Ojo Idowu (Assistant engineer), Oluwadamire Abraham (DeckMan), Oluwole Azuzu (Assistant captain), and Taiwo Adebanwo (Chief Engineer).

During the handover, Captain Aneke reiterated the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways and its relentless efforts to combat criminal activities therein