The Uyo Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into eight individuals suspected of involvement in illegal oil trading activities in Akwa Ibom.
These individuals were apprehended by the Nigerian Navy Ship Forward Operating Base Ibaka on February 23, 2024. Following their arrest, they were handed over to the EFCC by the Commanding Officer, Captain (NN) Uche Aneke, on April 3, 2024.
Dele Oyewale, the head of media and publicity for the EFCC, provided details indicating that the suspects were found in possession of approximately 30,000 litres of suspected crude oil. The illicit petroleum product was concealed within a sealed compartment in a wooden boat, as well as in four Geepee tanks.
The suspects, identified as Pere Ebiye (Captain), Okon David (DeckMan), Enuwa Wilson (Cook), Wesley Okon (DeckMan), Ade Ojo Idowu (Assistant engineer), Oluwadamire Abraham (DeckMan), Oluwole Azuzu (Assistant captain), and Taiwo Adebanwo (Chief Engineer), are currently under investigation.
During the handover process, Captain Aneke reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s waterways and combating criminal activities. He expressed confidence that the arrest of these suspects would serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar illegal ventures.
ASE1 Terseer Chinyam, an Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, received custody of the suspects on behalf of the anti-graft agency. He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for their collaborative efforts and affirmed the EFCC’s determination to work alongside the Navy and other security agencies in combating economic crimes across the country.
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