Nigeria launches major naval campaign to stop oil-related crimes

Edited by: Reda El Ghazal

The Nigerian Navy has launched a comprehensive maritime security effort to disrupt the illegal extraction and movement of petroleum resources. Over the last two years naval teams have intercepted seventy six ships and detained more than two hundred individuals involved in the illicit petroleum trade. These coordinated actions have also led to the closure of over eight hundred unlicensed fuel processing sites located in different coastal areas.

The campaign has intensified since June last year with officials confiscating around one hundred seventy one thousand barrels of crude as well as millions of liters of unapproved fuel supplies. As a result the government has implemented new tracking measures at main export terminals since January to better supervise cargo movement and address leakages at strategic points. These steps aim to protect the country’s economic stability and restore confidence in the energy sector.

In support of ongoing operations the navy has strengthened its fleet with advanced boats helicopters and additional patrol ships. Investments in new defense craft and offshore security vessels are expected to enhance surveillance and reinforce law enforcement capabilities. By modernizing resources and procedures authorities hope to curb oil crime and improve revenue streams critical to national development.