During a gathering of maritime stakeholders in Abuja, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, disclosed that the Nigerian Navy has apprehended more than 35 vessels involved in oil theft within the nation’s waters.
Ogalla emphasized that the culprits responsible for the illicit activities were handed over to the appropriate prosecuting authorities following the arrests.
He highlighted the Navy’s strategic shift in operations with the establishment of Operation Delta Sanity in January. This shift has enabled the Navy to enhance its maritime security efforts through vigilant surveillance, responsive capabilities, and rigorous law enforcement. Moreover, collaboration with all maritime stakeholders has played a crucial role in the success of these operations.
Assuring the stakeholders, Ogalla reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling its statutory duties to create a secure maritime environment conducive for the nation’s economic growth.
In line with this commitment, he underscored the Navy’s goal to support operators in performing their duties efficiently and without hindrance. Ogalla articulated, “One of the key aspects of enhancing business operations is by providing security. Without a secure environment, operators face challenges in carrying out their tasks effectively.”
He further emphasized the Navy’s approach to ensuring that arrests and detentions of offenders do not disrupt the legitimate activities of business operators. Ogalla stated that a careful balance is maintained to safeguard against undue interruptions while upholding the law.