Navy intercepts vessel with N660m stolen crude, arrests 12 suspects

The Nigerian Navy has apprehended an oil tanker, MT FILIA, allegedly carrying stolen crude oil valued at more than N660 million (approximately $400,000 USD). Twelve crew members were arrested in connection with the illicit operation off the coast of Akwa Ibom State.

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At about 4:00 a.m. on July 23, a Nigerian Navy patrol boat intercepted the tanker after it departed the terminal and headed seaward.

The vessel, flagged under São Tomé and Príncipe, was intercepted on July 23, 2026, by the Eastern Naval Command during Operation Delta Sentinel. Commodore AA Umar, the Command Operations Officer, stated that the tanker had been loitering near an offshore terminal for over seven days, reportedly waiting for an opportunity to illegally siphon crude oil.

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On sighting the Nigerian Navy ship, the crew began discharging the stolen crude oil into the sea, thereby causing maritime pollution.

"At about 4:00 a.m. on July 23, a Nigerian Navy patrol boat intercepted the tanker after it departed the terminal and headed seaward," Umar told journalists. "On sighting the Nigerian Navy ship, the crew began discharging the stolen crude oil into the sea, thereby causing maritime pollution."

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Investigations from our end and the confession by the captain of the team show that the vessel loaded about 650 metric tonnes of crude oil estimated to be worth more than N660m.

Preliminary investigations and the captain's confession suggest the vessel loaded approximately 650 metric tonnes of crude. The Navy is continuing its investigation to identify all individuals involved in the theft. Commodore Umar reiterated the Navy's dedication to safeguarding Nigeria's maritime assets and critical oil infrastructure, warning that perpetrators would face legal consequences.

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Thorough investigation is still ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the alleged theft and identify other individuals connected to the operation.