By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Oil thieves under investigation by EFCC in Lagos
The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into 13 suspected oil thieves and a vessel, MT SWEET MIRI, handed over to the commission by the Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos State.
According to the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the suspects include Abu Smith, Pascal Anyafulu, David Ali, Mba Okpanu, Chukuma Friday Obiazi, Miye Victor, Richard Kofi, Monday Aidenagbon, Dele Olayemi, Boma Robinson, David George, Onos Edemefe, and Suleiman Aremu.
The vessel and crew were apprehended on February 27, 2024, by Nigerian Navy officers for alleged illegal oil bunkering and Automatic Identification System infractions. The vessel was found to be carrying approximately 1,322 metric tonnes of a substance resembling crude oil without proper documentation.
Moses Awolusi, Head of the Extractive Industry Fraud Section, received the crew members, vessel, and product on April 24, 2024, assuring the navy that thorough investigations would be conducted, and the suspects and exhibits would be prosecuted accordingly.
Awolusi also lauded the collaborative efforts between the Navy and the EFCC, emphasizing the productive relationship both agencies have maintained over the years.
The suspects will face charges in court once investigations are completed.
Oil Thieves under investigation, EFCC
(Oil Thieves and EFCC)