The Joint Task Force (JTF) operating in the Niger Delta region has freed two suspected vessels carrying diesel.
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The task force said that one of the vessels was carrying 282,000 litres of diesel worth N46.53 million.
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The JTF Commander, Maj.-Gen. Iliyasu Abba, announced the release of the vehicles on Monday during the release of the two vessels to its owners in Bonny Island, Rivers.
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The two vessels, identified as MV Ebba and MT Askja Rotterdam, were arrested along the creeks in Rivers on suspicion that they were transporting petroleum products without permit.
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Abba, represented by Maj. Badmus Adebayo, also announced the release of nine crew members from the two vessels to their employers.
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“MV Ebba, which had 282,000 litres of diesel was arrested in October 2013 on suspicion of involvement in illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta.
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“Also, MT Askja was arrested in June 2013 due to its suspicious movement and because it anchored without permit.
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“Following the arrest of the vessels by our troops on surveillance patrol, investigation was launched with the testing of the products to authenticate its validity and source.
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“After thorough investigations were conducted; the Defence headquarters ordered the release of the vessels and so the owners are hereby encouraged to continue in their legal trade,” he said.
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Abba said that the task force would continue to hunt oil thieves, pipeline vandals and sea pirates till it rid the region of attacks on oil installations.
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He said that the fight against illegal bunkering activities in the Niger Delta was the responsibility of every Nigerian so as to ensure the nation’s economic growth.
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The commander called on the public to report anyone found to be involved in oil theft and pipeline vandalism to security agencies in the state.
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Reacting, an official of Ideki Services, owners of MT Askja Rotterdam, Mr Abraham Idabubeleye, expressed delight over the release of the vessel.
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He said it was wrong to assume that owners of marine vessels carried out illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta.
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He said the release of the vessels should change the view because there were several marine investors who carried out their services legitimately.
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Idabubeleye commended JTF for its “transparency and speed” in its investigation, saying the JTF meant well for the country’s economy.
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