The patrol team of the Nigerian Navy Ship NNS BEECROFT, along with the maritime component of Operation AWATSE, successfully stopped a group of criminals from conducting illegal bunkering in Folu Village, IBEJU Lekki.
This area lies on the boundary between Lagos State and Ogun State.
Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, who announced this during a briefing in Apapa, Lagos, stated that his team received credible intelligence at 3 a.m. on November 11, 2023, and immediately deployed to the location.
Upon arrival, the criminals fled while the patrol team discovered hoses connecting pumping machines to an 18,000-liter truck used to siphon automotive gas oil (AGO) into jerrycans.
Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga emphasised that swift and decisive action was taken as the equipment and truck were seized and are currently being held at the base for further investigation in accordance with standard procedures.
Additionally, the patrol team of Operation WATER GUARD, NNS BEECROFT, successfully intercepted and seized a large fiber boat transporting illegally obtained Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in the early hours of November 11, 2023.
Commodore Oguntuga mentioned that the criminals fled upon spotting the naval team, leaving the confiscated boat containing over 90 drums of 250 liters each of PMS.
The NNS BEECROFT commander emphasized that this proactive operation highlights the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, to safeguard the nation’s petroleum resources for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Commodore Oguntuga took the opportunity to urge parents to guide their children toward better job opportunities or businesses, warning that those caught engaging in illegal activities would face legal consequences.
He emphasised that preventing the illicit acquisition of volatile products like petroleum not only combats economic sabotage but also reduces the risk of fire outbreaks, which could have severe consequences for lives and property.
