The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced investigations into eight suspected oil thieves handed over by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Naval Base, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Monday.
The investigation is being conducted by the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the EFCC.
According to the Commission, the suspects were arrested on Sunday, March 22, 2026, by the Anti-COT Team of NNS Pathfinder during a routine patrol around Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo areas of Rivers State.
The suspects were apprehended alongside two boats conveying 44,000 litres of petroleum products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
While handing over the suspects to the EFCC, Lt. Commander J. J. Jerome who represented the Base Commander said: “On Saturday, 21 March 2026, at about 22:15 hrs, Anti-COT Team from NNS Pathfinder departed the NNS Pathfinder Jetty for a routine patrol following credible intelligence on ongoing illegal activities within Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo general areas in Rivers State.
“At about 01:15 hrs on the 22 March 2026, the patrol team encountered a large wooden boat escorted by armed elements suspected to be affiliated with criminal groups, who fled upon sighting the Naval patrol team. Subsequent search led to the interception of two wooden boats laden with 423 sacs of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), estimated at 44,000 litres. Consequently, eight suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal activities.”
Jerome added that the handing over of the suspects was in compliance with the Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure on Arrest, Detention and Prosecution of Vessels and Persons in Nigeria’s Maritime Environment.
Taking over the suspects and exhibits on behalf of the EFCC, Superintendent of EFCC, SE Emerole Chioma, who stood in for the Acting Zonal Director, Port Harcourt, commended the Navy for its synergy and collaborative efforts in ensuring a safer maritime environment.
Chioma noted that it is part of the Commission’s mandate to investigate and prosecute economic crimes and related offences.
She assured that further investigation and possible prosecution of the suspects would be carried out in the interest of justice.
