Alleged violation of maritime laws has led to the arrest of two motor vessels and 12 crew members by the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base FORMOSO in Bayelsa.
On Saturday, the Commanding Officer, Capt. Murtala Rogo, informed that the vessels and suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency in Bayelsa.
Represented by the Executive Officer, Commander M.A. Gada, Rogo disclosed that the vessels, MV Rig Runner and MV Celtic Ebenezer, were apprehended on April 2 and May 2 consecutively.
According to him, “Our patrol teams seized both vessels around Madu Oilfield, off the coast of Bayelsa when they were discovered to be navigating with their automatic identification systems switched off, a clear contravention of maritime law.”
Emphasizing the navy’s unwavering commitment to combat illegal bunkering, crude oil theft, and other waterway crimes, the commanding officer reiterated their dedication to maintaining maritime security.