The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the alleged illegal activities of eight individuals suspected of dealing in petroleum products without appropriate licenses.
The suspects, identified as Pere Ebiye (Captain), Okon David (DeckMan), Enuwa Wilson (Cook), Wesley Okon (DeckMan), Ade Ojo Idowu (Asst. Engineer), Oluwadamire Abraham (DeckMan), Oluwole Azuzu (Asst. Captain), and Taiwo Adebanwo (Chief Engineer), were apprehended on Friday, February 23, 2024.
They were intercepted aboard a wooden boat named MV Jasmine, which was found to be carrying 30,000 liters of petroleum products suspected to be crude oil. The products were concealed in a cellophane-sealed compartment of the boat and in four Geepee tanks.
The crew members and the confiscated exhibits were handed over to the EFCC on Tuesday, April 3, 2024, by Captain (NN) Uche Aneke of the Nigeria Navy Ship, Forward Operating Base Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State.
Captain Aneke emphasized the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maintaining the safety and security of the nation’s waterways, pledging to apprehend and prosecute individuals involved in criminal activities at sea.
Upon receiving the suspects, boat, and illicit products, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE1 Bawa H. Saidu, represented by Assistant Superintendent ASE1 Terseer Chinyam, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their collaboration.
He reiterated the EFCC’s dedication to working closely with all security agencies to combat economic crimes in Nigeria.
