The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into eight individuals suspected of oil theft in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, after their arrest by the Nigerian Navy.
This was revealed in a statement shared on the Commission’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, which noted that the suspects were handed over by the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder on March 23, 2026.
The EFCC explained that the suspects had earlier been arrested on March 22 by the Navy’s Anti-Crude Oil Theft team during a patrol operation in the Degema, Ogbogoro, and Ogbologo areas of the state.
They were reportedly apprehended along with two boats carrying approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.
Speaking at the handover, a representative of the Naval Base Commander, Lt. Commander J.J. Jerome, stated that the operation was carried out based on intelligence reports of illegal activities in the area.
“On March 21 at about 22:15 hours, the patrol team departed the base for routine operation. At about 01:15 hours the next day, they intercepted two wooden boats laden with products suspected to be illegally refined AGO,” he said.
He added that some armed individuals escorting the boats fled on sighting the naval team, while eight suspects were arrested in connection with the activity.
Jerome noted that the handover was carried out in line with established procedures guiding the arrest and prosecution of maritime related offences.
Receiving the suspects on behalf of the Commission, an EFCC official Chioma Emerole, commended the Navy for what she described as strong collaboration in tackling economic crimes.
She said the EFCC Commission would carry out further investigation and ensure that those found culpable were prosecuted.
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