Nigerian Navy Intercepts Tanker Carrying 650 Metric Tonnes of Suspected Stolen Crude Worth Over N660 Million
The Nigerian Navy has intercepted an oil tanker allegedly transporting 650 metric tonnes of suspected stolen crude oil valued at more than N660 million during an anti-crude theft operation in Nigerian waters.
The vessel, identified as MT FILIA (IMO No. 8662684) and sailing under the flag of São Tomé and Príncipe, was arrested by the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) on July 23 following intelligence-led surveillance.
The tanker had 12 crew members onboard at the time of its interception.
Navy Details How the Operation Unfolded
Speaking during a media briefing in Calabar, the Eastern Naval Command’s Operations Officer, Commodore Abubakar Umar, said the successful operation was made possible through credible intelligence.
According to Umar, preliminary findings showed that the vessel remained around offshore oil terminals in Akwa Ibom State for more than seven days, apparently waiting for an opportunity to access crude oil facilities.
Investigators believe the tanker later moved to one of the offshore crude oil jackets, where it allegedly carried out the illegal loading of crude oil before attempting to leave the area.
Crew Allegedly Dumped Crude Oil Into the Sea During Chase
The Navy disclosed that at about 4:00 a.m. on July 23, the tanker departed the offshore terminal and headed towards open waters.
A naval patrol boat immediately pursued and intercepted the vessel.
According to the Navy, crew members allegedly began discharging part of the crude oil cargo into the sea after spotting the approaching naval ship, an action that reportedly caused marine pollution.
Captain Allegedly Admitted Vessel Loaded 650 Metric Tonnes of Crude
Commodore Umar said preliminary investigations included statements from the vessel’s captain, who allegedly admitted that the tanker had loaded approximately 650 metric tonnes of crude oil from the offshore terminal.
The stolen cargo is estimated to be worth more than N660 million.
He added that investigations are continuing to determine everyone involved in the alleged illegal operation and uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have yet to announce whether any formal charges have been filed against the crew as the investigation remains ongoing.
