In a decisive operation to combat crude oil theft and protect Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure, troops of the Joint Task Force South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), have intercepted and arrested two vessels suspected of involvement in illegal crude oil siphoning within the Calabar/Akwa Ibom maritime area.
The arrested vessels are MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf AF. They were apprehended on the night of Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at about 11:45 p.m., while actively engaged in siphoning activities at a wellhead in the Joint Operations Area.
According to the spokesperson, the vessels were found laden with a combined total of approximately 939 metric tons of suspected stolen crude oil MT Mkpodu carrying an estimated 480 metric tons and MT Westaf AF carrying about 459 metric tons. The consignment is valued at over ₦4 billion.
A total of 26 crew members were on board the two vessels at the time of the arrest.
This successful interception underscores the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Navy and the Joint Task Force to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, disrupting economic sabotage, and curbing the activities of oil thieves who undermine Nigeria’s oil revenue and environmental sustainability.
The vessels and suspects are currently in custody, and further investigations are ongoing in collaboration with relevant agencies.
The Nigerian Navy reiterates its zero-tolerance stance on crude oil theft and related maritime crimes, warning that anyone involved in such illicit activities will be apprehended and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The public is encouraged to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing efforts in securing Nigeria’s oil assets.