By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo
The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operation Base (FOB), in Ibaka, Mbo Local Council of Akwa Ibom has handed over six suspects, a wooden boat and 6,790 litres of Premium Motor Spirit to Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC) in Akwa Ibom.
The Commanding Officer, FOB, Ibaka, Capt. Uche Aneke told the newmen in Ibaka on Monday that the arrests and seizure were made following an intelligence report of suspected smuggling activities within her area of operation.
“Falcon Eye Alignment Intelligence report indicated that a boat was conveying products suspected to have been smuggled from a creek and heading to the Republic of Cameroon while transiting within the waters under FOB Ibaka area of operation.
“Consequently, the gunboats from the Base on routine patrols were vectored to intercept and arrested six smugglers in a wooden boat that contained 6, 790 litres of PMS concealed under 25 bags of yam, cartons of drinks, cornflakes and over 200 cartons of tiles covered with a tarpaulin.” Aneke explained.
The commanding officer warned individual or groups interested in smuggling illegal consignments into or out of Nigeria or planning to carry out any form of criminality in Nigeria’s waters to desist forthwith.
“Under the current leadership of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, we will ensure that, it is impossible for maritime crimes to continue in the maritime and coastal areas of Akwa Ibom.” He said.
Receiving the suspects and seized items on behalf of NSCDC, Superintendent of Corps, Mr Michael Asibor, Head of Anti Vandal Unit, said the corps would carry out further investigation and prosecution.
“The next line of actions, is to interrogate them and as soon as our investigation is concluded, they would be charge to court for prosecution immediately.” Asibor said.
