The Nigerian Navy has arrested a vessel carrying 650 metric tonnes of suspected stolen crude oil in a major operation aimed at tackling oil theft in the country’s maritime sector.
The Eastern Naval Command said the vessel, MT FILIA, was intercepted on July 23 within Nigerian waters following credible intelligence. The tanker, which was sailing under the flag of São Tomé and Príncipe, had 12 crew members on board at the time of its arrest.
According to the Navy, preliminary investigations showed that the vessel remained near offshore oil terminals in Akwa Ibom State for more than seven days before allegedly gaining access to an oil facility where it illegally loaded crude oil.
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Naval officers said a patrol boat tracked and intercepted the tanker shortly after it departed the offshore terminal. During the pursuit, crew members allegedly discharged some of the stolen crude oil into the sea in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence, resulting in marine pollution.
The Navy said the vessel’s captain admitted that about 650 metric tonnes of crude oil had been loaded. The stolen cargo is estimated to be worth more than ₦660 million.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to uncover those behind the operation and identify any individuals or groups connected to the suspected crude oil theft.
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