The Nigerian Navy has arrested nine oil thieves in Akwa Ibom as part of Operation Delta Sanity 2, tackling crude oil theft and maritime crime

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Nigerian Navy has arrested nine suspected oil thieves in Akwa Ibom State as part of its ongoing efforts to curb crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.

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The arrests were made at a wellhead located approximately 26 nautical miles offshore.

Commodore Abubakar Umar, Commander of NNS Jubilee, revealed that the operation was carried out under Operation Delta Sanity 2, an initiative launched on 30 December 2024 by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

The operation is designed to tackle crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, pipeline vandalism, and other illicit activities within Nigeria’s eastern territorial waters.

Since its inception, Operation Delta Sanity 2 has intensified maritime and aerial patrols, leading to multiple interceptions and arrests.

Commodore Umar reiterated the Navy’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s waterways, warning criminals to desist from their activities.

He assured that the apprehended suspects would undergo thorough investigations and, if found guilty, face legal consequences.

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The Nigerian Navy has maintained a firm stance against economic sabotage, with recent operations demonstrating its resolve to protect the nation’s resources.