The High Command of the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder, best known as NNS PATHFINDER has handed over 11 suspects arrested while on routine patrol around Krakrama Creeks and their boat to the NSCDC for further investigation and prosecution. .
NNS PATHFINDER on Monday, in a statement, said that the arrested boat was also laden with 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron as well as 20 gas cylinders.
According to the statement, the success is in line with the Chief of Naval Staff CNS strategic mandate on zero tolerance for crude oil and other petroleum products theft, the Base has been resolute in conducting operations to deny the oil thieves freedom of action in its Area of Operations.
The statement reveals that on 23 Jan 24, the Base Tactical Response and Assault Squadron while on routine patrol around Krakrama Creeks, intercepted a boat with 11 crew laden with 10 metal plates, 14 angle iron as well as 20 gas cylinders.
The items that were carefully concealed in a wooden boat were materials used for the construction of illegal refinery sites in the creeks.
It's said further findings revealed that the suspects were conveying the items to the Bille general area for the construction of an illegal refining site.
He added that the investigation revealed that the arrested suspects were workers used for the construction of the illegal refining site. The arrested suspects claimed they were contracted by one Mr John. At the moment, the Base is making concerted efforts to arrest Mr John and other suspects involved in this criminal act.
"NNS PATHFINDER wants to use this medium to warn oil thieves and other criminals within Bile and other parts of Rivers State to repent as the Base will stop at nothing to ensure they are arrested and brought to justice. It is important to state that the Base will not be deterred by blackmail or antics of enemies of the nation against the Nigerian Navy in the discharge of its constitutional duties.
"The Base want to ensure the good people of Rivers State of its readiness to provide a peaceful and secure environment that would enable them to conduct their legitimate commercial activities.
NNS PATHFINDER therefore urged Nigerians to support the provision of information on suspicious criminal activities.
