Controversy trails Military decision of setting illegal crude oil vessel ablaze

On Monday, October 10, 2022, the Nigerian Navy set fire to a vessel discovered loading illegal crude oil in Delta state.

The vessel named MT Deima, with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) number 7210525, was arrested by Tantita Security Services, a firm operated by Chief Government Ekpemupolo (alias Tompolo).

The vessel was carrying seven men when it was seized near Escravos in the state’s Warri South West Local Government Area, Sahara reports.

ThisDay reports that at the point of arrest, about 600 to 650 cubic metres of illegally lifted crude oil in five compartments were said to be on board the vessel.

The Marine Intelligence Consultant for Tantita Security Services, Captain Warredi Enisuoh disclosed that the arrest was based on intelligence gathering and the use of satellite images.

He also said records showed that the arrested Dutch vessel, sold to a Nigerian, had been variously used for moving crude oil illegally for years.

Enisuoh disclosed that she was scheduled to take the stolen crude to Tema in Ghana.

In reaction to the news, Nigerians have voiced alarm about burning military vehicles, wondering how the military could make such a decision without letting the public know who owned them.
CONTINUE READING…

Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? For Adverts or reports call/WhatsApp us on +2348072633727