‘Oil bunkering’: Navy hands over 22 suspects, vessels to EFCC

The Nigerian navy has handed over two motor vessels, one “Cotonou boat”, and 22 crew members allegedly involved in illegal oil bunkering to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for “possible prosecution”.

This was disclosed in a statement by Tony Orilade, EFCC spokesman.

According to the statement, Ibrahim Dewu, commander of NNS Delta, said the vessels were intercepted on May 19 off Escravos by a combined team of NNS Delta and forward operating base (FOB).

The vessels and boat were allegedly loaded with thousands of litres of automotive gas oil (AGO).

The suspects were listed as George Nwafor, John Obukene, Elijah Ibitoye, Lawal Olayemi, Sherif Prex, Obaten Egbe, Efe Brown, Balogun Ogunlowa, Alex Udi, Eremiye Esau, and Agbaje Olorunjuwon Anofi.

Others are Abdulganiyu Kabiru, Japhet Onyenibe, Sola Olurinmi, Endurance Mene, Mohammed Emeymola Ajodun, Monday Atie, Demehin Omolere, Olu Soji Juwon, Oroyo Ade, Omoteyinshe John Onbowoibun and Isogun Bode.

While receiving the vessels and the suspects on behalf of the anti-graft agency, Richard Ogberagha, a principal detective superintendent, said the commission would carry out further investigations and ensure that the culprits were brought to book.