Security operatives destroy vessel with stolen crude oil

Security operatives of the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, in collaboration with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, have destroyed intercepted vessel carrying barrels of stolen crude oil in the Escravos area of Delta State.

The vessel was set ablaze by a military helicopter. The vessel, allegedly owned by a Nigerian registered company, was heading to Cameroun with the cargo onboard when it was apprehended at an offshore location with the captain and crewmembers onboard.

The destruction of the vessel followed planned action of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and authorities involved in the investigation to make an example of what happens to saboteurs, who intend to steal from the country.

According to the Executive Director of Operations and Technical at Tantita Security, Captain Warred Enisuoh, and the Commander of the Joint Task Force, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, the oil cargo was illegally sourced from a well-jacketed offshore in Ondo State with no valid documentation at the time of arrest. The said vessel had operated in stealth mode for the last 12 years.

The discovery was the latest in series of disturbing findings by the Tantita Security Services, a security outfit owned by former militant leader, Government Ekpemepulo, otherwisw known as Tompolo and contracted by NNPCL.

In October 2022, security agents also destroyed a vessel used for crude oil theft off Niger Delta creeks after Tompolo’s firm reportedly confiscated it.

The destruction of the vessel generated controversy, as some Nigerians condemned the action, saying it should have been preserved as an exhibit to prosecute its owners.

The House of Representatives subsequently said it would investigate the circumstances surrounding destruction of the oil-bunkering vessel.

However, the Federal Government defended the action, saying it was in line with the rules of engagement.