The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft on Tuesday, uncovered an illegal fuel depot at No 3 Silver Bird Road, Ilasun Lekki, leading to the arrest of five suspects.
Mr. Ahmed Ariyo, the syndicate leader, was arrested along with four others in a private apartment where they conducted their illegal activities.
In a statement by Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, spokesperson for NNS Beecroft, Commander NNS Beecroft, Commodore Rafiu Taye Oladejo, informed newsmen that the illegal fuel depot was uncovered following credible intelligence on suspicious activities at Elegushi beach.
He mentioned that this prompted the deployment of NNS Beecroft Quick Response Team to the area, leading to the discovery and subsequent arrest of the suspects.
Commodore Oladejo added that the illegal fuel depot contains 8 storage tanks of 50,000 litres capacity each, laden with about 57,000 litres of AGO; a tanker laden with about 7,000 litres; a bus with 30 jerry cans laden with about 1,500 litres.
The total products discovered is about 65,000 litres of AGO which is estimated to be about 89 million Naira based on the current price of AGO (₦1,350).
While estimating the total capacity of the storage facility found in the apartment, the Commander said the 8 storage tanks if filled with AGO will be about 400,000 litres which is approximately 500 million Naira.
He further explained that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects possibly got the products through pipeline vandalism, illegal vendors at sea as well as other illegal means along the coastline.
Commodore Oladejo emphasized that NNS Beecroft will continue its pursuit of oil thieves and other criminal elements as directed by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu, the Chief of Naval Staff.
He assured law abiding citizens of NNS Beecroft’s commitment to stamping out Lagos maritime environment of all forms of maritime crimes for socioeconomic activities to thrive.
The Commander finally handed over the suspects, products and the facility to Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for further investigation and possible prosecution.
