Tompolo’s security firm intercepts vessel transporting 800,000 litres of stolen crude oil
A private security contractor engaged by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC Ltd) has intercepted a vessel believed to be transporting 800,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the vessel and its crew members were apprehended on July 7 by operatives of Messrs. Tantita Security Services at an offshore location en route to Cameroon.
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Mr. Garba Muhammad, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, made a statement in Abuja reporting the incident.
He revealed that the vessel in question, MT TURA II, registered under the Nigerian company HOLAB MARITIME SERVICES LIMITED with the registration number RC813311, was found to have illegally sourced the crude oil cargo from an offshore well jacket in Ondo State, Nigeria.
The arrest took place due to the absence of valid documentation for the vessel and the crude oil cargo onboard at the time.
Upon further investigation at the NNPC Ltd. Command and Control Centre, it was discovered that the vessel had been operating covertly. The last recorded location of the vessel was at Tin Can Port in July 2011, leaving a significant gap in its activities.
The details of the arrest and the outcomes of the investigations have been promptly reported to the relevant government authorities.
The decision to destroy the vessel serves as a stern warning and a deterrent to all those involved in such illegal activities.
Destroying vessels engaged in the transportation of stolen crude oil is considered extremely important in deterring future incidents.
The illegal trade of stolen crude oil not only results in substantial economic losses for Nigeria and legitimate stakeholders in the oil industry but also perpetuates corruption, environmental devastation, and social instability. NNPC Ltd. pledges to continue its efforts to combat crude oil theft until it is completely eradicated.
The interception of this vessel marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against oil theft, and NNPC Ltd. remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s valuable resources for the benefit of all its citizens.
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