The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two vessels allegedly engaged in crude oil theft, recovering over 939 metric tons of suspected stolen crude oil valued at more than N4 billion.
The vessels, identified as MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf AF, were arrested along with 26 crew members during coordinated maritime operations in the South-South region.
The Commander of the Joint Task Force South South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Adm. Olugbenga Oladipo, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Calabar on Sunday.
He said the arrests demonstrate the Navy’s sustained efforts to tackle crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage within Nigeria’s maritime environment.
According to him, the operation was executed following credible intelligence received on April 8, 2026, which led operatives to the interception point at a wellhead within the Calabar/Akwa Ibom Joint Operation Area.
Oladipo explained that MT Mkpodu was caught actively siphoning crude oil when naval personnel moved in to apprehend the vessel.
He added that the operation was supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Defence Staff, alongside air and naval assets deployed for the mission.
“The Chief of Naval Staff and the Chief of Air Staff provided us with all the necessary assets we used in carrying out this operation,” he said.
He further noted that a Nigerian Navy helicopter provided real-time aerial surveillance, while Nigerian Navy Ship SHERE secured the vessels at the offshore location.
According to him, additional naval units, including Nigerian Navy Ship OSE and personnel from Forward Operating Base Ibaka, assisted in transporting the suspects and the vessels to the Navy jetty in Calabar.
Oladipo also disclosed that another vessel, MT Steliosk, was intercepted on April 10 in a related operation, describing the arrests as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the nation’s oil sector.
He commended the collaboration among security agencies, noting that the success reflects improved inter-agency coordination in tackling crude oil theft.
The Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Adm. Chidozie Okehie, also praised the operation and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to intensifying the fight against maritime crime in the region.
