By Linus Aleke, Abuja
The High Command of the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder, otherwise known as (NNS PATHFINDER), on Monday said that its Base Tactical Response and Assault Squadron, has intercepted a boat with 11 crew, while on routine patrol around Krakrama Creeks.
NNS PATHFINDER, in a statement, said that the arrested boat was also laden with 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron as well as 20 gas cylinders.
It also noted that the items, which were carefully concealed in a wooden boat are materials used for the construction of illegal refinery sites in the creeks.
The Base said that further findings revealed that the suspects were conveying the items to Bille general area for the construction of an illegal refining site.
Noting that additional investigation revealed that the arrested suspects are workers used for the construction of the illegal refining site, the statement added that the arrested suspects claimed they were contracted by one Mr John.
The Base, the statement said, is making concerted efforts to arrest Mr John and other suspects involved in this criminal act.
The statement reads, “In line with the CNS’ strategic mandate on zero tolerance for crude oil and other petroleum products theft, the Base has been resolute in conducting operations to deny the oil thieves freedom of action in its Area of Operations.
Consequently, 23 Jan 24, the Base Tactical Response and Assault Squadron while on routine patrol around Krakrama Creeks, intercepted a boat with 11 crew and laden with 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron as well as 20 gas cylinders. NNS PATHFINDER wants to use this medium to warn oil thieves and other criminals within Bile and other part of Rivers State to repent as the Base will stop at nothing to ensure they are arrested and brought to justice. It is important to state that the Base will not be deterred by blackmail or antics of enemies of the nation against the Nigerian Navy in the discharge of its constitutional duties. The Base want to ensure the good people of Rivers State of its readiness to provide a peaceful and secure environment that would enable them conduct their legitimate commercial activities”.
The 11 suspects, the Base concluded, has since been hand over to the NSCDC for further investigation and prosecution.
