The Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigations into eight suspected oil thieves handed over to it by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder in Rivers State.
The suspects were transferred to the Commission on Monday, March 23, 2026, following their arrest a day earlier by the Anti-Crude Oil Theft (Anti-COT) Team of NNS Pathfinder during a routine patrol in Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo areas of the state.
The naval team apprehended the suspects alongside two wooden boats conveying 44,000 litres of petroleum products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Speaking during the handover, Lieutenant Commander J.J. Jerome, who represented the Base Commander of NNS Pathfinder, disclosed that the operation was based on credible intelligence regarding illegal activities in the area.
According to him, the patrol team departed the NNS Pathfinder Jetty late on March 21, 2026, and at about 1:15 a.m. on March 22 encountered a large wooden boat escorted by armed individuals believed to be affiliated with criminal groups, who fled upon sighting naval personnel.
“A subsequent search led to the interception of two wooden boats laden with 423 sacks of products suspected to be illegally refined AGO, estimated at 44,000 litres. Consequently, eight suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal activities,” he said.
Jerome noted that the handover of the suspects and exhibits was in line with the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure on Arrest, Detention and Prosecution of Vessels and Persons in Nigeria’s Maritime Environment.
Receiving the suspects on behalf of the EFCC, Superintendent S.E. Emerole Chioma, who represented the Acting Zonal Director in Port Harcourt, commended the Navy for its collaboration and commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
She reiterated that the EFCC would carry out a thorough investigation and ensure the prosecution of those found culpable, stressing that tackling economic crimes remains a core mandate of the Commission.
The suspects are expected to face further investigation as authorities intensify efforts to curb illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta region.
