Navy reiterates readiness to curb oil theft

The Central Naval Command, (CNC) of the Nigerian Navy has reiterated its commitment and readiness to rid the Niger Delta waterways of economic crimes, such as sea piracy and illegal oil bunkering, saying it operations have reduced criminality in the maritime domain to almost zero in the last one year.

The out-going Field Office Commanding, (FOC) of the CNC, based in Yenegoa, Bayelsa state, Real Admiral Apochi Suleman, disclosed this yesterday during his handover ceremony to the new CNC, Real Admiral Tarioworio Dick. He said its operation in the last seven months of his command have increased the daily crude oil production in the country and enhanced economic prosperity as recently acknowledged by oil giant, Shell. Apochi, said the command, which is the youngest of all naval commands, has discovered and destroyed over 100 illegal refineries, demystified the creeks and reduced sea piracy and other forms of criminalities in the waterways since he assumed office seven months ago.

He said during his seven months, he deployed men and ratings to the creeks and waterways of the region in order to maintain a steady patrol on the region’s maritime. Highlights of the event was the formal handover of the command flag to the new FOC and the farewell parade for the out-going FOC which was held at the headquarters of NNS Delta, in Warri, Delta state.