The individuals who were apprehended aboard a motor tanker have been positively identified as Freme Adio, Onore Akwaso, Isegbejii Deli, Kosi Pascal, Dao Sure, John Abel, and Buga Noel. According to reports, they employed two wooden boats to facilitate the transfer of Premium Motor Spirit from the vessel into numerous 200-liter drums and 50-liter jerry cans.
The suspects, who were presented by Commander Kolawale Oguntuga of the NNS Beecroft, were showcased at the Naval Base parade field in Apapa, Lagos on the 28th of August. Commander Oguntuga stated that the suspects will be sent to the relevant authorities for further action.
According to Oguntuga,
The patrol team of the Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft has once again demonstrated its unwavering dedication to battling the illicit practice of illegal bunkering. They have successfully apprehended many vessels involved in this unlawful activity, which had the potential to cause a scarcity of items for distribution.
On August 27, 2023, during the early hours, the advanced Falcon Eye Maritime Domain Awareness Facility detected a concentration of watercraft in close proximity to the Motor Tanker VIRGO 1, which is registered under the flag of Panama.
Upon reaching the crime scene, located around four nautical miles from Lagos Fair-Way Buoy, the patrol crew uncovered a network of illicit bunkering operations. Two wooden vessels, carrying a substantial number of 200-liter drums and 50-liter jerry cans, were discovered in the act of receiving petroleum motor spirit (PMS) via hoses from the vessel known as MT VIRGO 1.