In a major operation that has sent shockwaves through Rivers State, the Nigerian Navy has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against oil bunkering scams. Three individuals, including an imposter posing as a naval officer, have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in issuing forged documents to facilitate illegal activities.
The Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, made the exciting announcement during a press parade, where the suspects were paraded before the media before being handed over to the police in Port Harcourt. This daring operation unfolded after the suspects were intercepted by the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Bonny Island on November 8, 2023.
The crew members of the vessel ‘MV Mother Gabrini’ presented a counterfeit NNS Pathfinder oil approval, but little did they know that the Navy was one step ahead. Swift action was taken by the Base to apprehend those involved in this illicit act, leading to a week-long intelligence-led operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspects in different locations.
Among those captured was the imposter who had been impersonating naval personnel to conduct illegal escort and security services within Rivers State. The discovery of two camouflage uniforms and other military gear at the imposter’s residence further solidified the case against them.
Commodore Igbo emphasized that this operation is part of NNS Pathfinder’s ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, aligning with the strategic directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff. The Nigerian Navy remains dedicated to maintaining law and order in the country’s waters, protecting the nation’s resources, and safeguarding the interests of its citizens.
This remarkable breakthrough serves as a stern warning to those involved in such criminal activities that the Nigerian Navy will stop at nothing to ensure justice is served.
