The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Command, has initiated an investigation into 13 individuals suspected of oil theft. These suspects were transferred to the EFCC’s custody by the Nigerian Navy in Lagos.
The EFCC disclosed this information on its official handle on Tuesday, April 30.
According to the commission, the suspects, along with the vessel, were apprehended by Nigerian Navy officers for their alleged involvement in oil bunkering and violations of the Automatic Identification System (AIS).
The post reads in part: “Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have commenced investigation of 13 suspected oil thieves and a vessel, MT SWEET MIRI, handed over to the Commission by the Nigerian Navy NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos State.
“The suspects are: Abu Smith, Pascal Anyafulu, David Ali, Mba Okpanu, Chukuma Friday Obiazi, Miye Victor and Richard Kofi.
“Others are Monday Aidenagbon, Dele Olayemi, Boma Robinson, David George, Onos Edemefe, and Suleiman Aremu.
“The vessel was laden with about 1,322 metric tonnes of substance “confirmed to bear the attributes of crude oil without any document permitting her to be in possession of the substance.”
The commission’s Head, Extractive Industry Fraud Section, EIFS, Moses Awolusi, assured the Navy that the suspects and the exhibits would be subjected to further investigations and prosecution.
He also commended the Navy for its collaboration with the EFCC and the good working relationship both agencies had enjoyed over the years.
