Navy Foils Massive Oil Heist: Seizes 15,000 MT Vessel Attempting to Pilfer 95,000 Barrels

In a recent development reported by Infostride News, the Nigerian Navy has successfully thwarted a significant oil theft operation off the shores of Awoye in Ondo state. Rear Admiral Mustapha Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command in Apapa, revealed in an exclusive interview with Arise News that on December 6, the Navy received credible intelligence regarding illicit activities involving a 15,000 metric ton (MT) vessel attempting to steal 95,000 barrels of crude oil, valued at approximately N6 billion according to current market rates.

Rear Admiral Hassan shared details of the operation, stating that upon receiving the intelligence, his team swiftly mobilized, reaching the vessel at 00:30 hours. The Navy encountered resistance as two boats accompanying the ship opened fire, prompting a measured response to ensure the safety of personnel. Despite the confrontation, the Navy successfully intervened, discovering a connection between the vessel and an oil platform. Two hoses were found tied, indicating an ongoing loading process, with the ship having already loaded two-thirds of its intended cargo value at the time of interception.

A surprising twist emerged as Infostride News reported on the involvement of Tantita Security, a private security company, in the incident. Rear Admiral Hassan expressed shock at Tantita’s subsequent communication with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), claiming to have arrested the vessel. He emphasized the high level of militancy in the Awoye riverine area, where Tantita operates, and questioned the lack of prior intelligence sharing with the Navy.

Allegations were raised against Tantita, suggesting that the private security company attempted to relocate the intercepted vessel to Oporoza in Delta state the following day. Rear Admiral Hassan questioned the motives behind such a move, asserting that Tantita, as a contractor, should not overstep its role in the arrest and custody of vessels involved in illegal activities. He speculated that some individuals within Tantita might be complicit in crude oil theft, attempting to divert the vessel to avoid embarrassment.

Responding to these allegations, Tantita’s Operations and Technical Director, Warredi Enisuoh, vehemently denied the Navy’s claims, labeling them as defamatory and false. He expressed disappointment in the Navy’s accusations, stating that video evidence of the incident had been transmitted to higher authorities.

Rear Admiral Hassan clarified the roles of private security companies under the Federal Government contract, emphasizing that they are expected to provide intelligence to the military rather than engaging in kinetic actions. He disclosed that he had communicated with the Commander, Joint Task Force – Delta Safe, warning Tantita against overstepping its bounds and emphasizing the importance of intelligence-sharing.

The situation brings attention to the controversial pipeline security contract awarded in August 2022 to Tantita Security Services Limited, led by former militant Tompolo, with support from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Despite opposition from some Nigerians, the federal government renewed the multi-billion-naira contract a year later, raising concerns about the effectiveness and accountability of private security firms in curbing crude oil theft.

As Infostride News continues to follow this developing story, questions linger about the collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and private security companies, highlighting the complexities and challenges in addressing crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region.