Nigerian Navy Seizes Petrol and Foreign Rice During Operations in Lagos
The Nigerian Navy’s FOB Badagry recently intercepted 13,800 litres of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice in operations from March 7 to 14. These actions were driven by intelligence on smuggling activities in the area, highlighting the Navy’s commitment to combating illegal operations along the Badagry-Porto Novo creeks and cooperating with sister agencies.
The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted 13,800 litres of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice during various operations along the Badagry creeks. Navy Captain Oyeleye Omotayo confirmed that these seizures were made between March 7 and 14, following intelligence reports regarding suspected smugglers operating in the vicinity.
The naval operations included a targeted mission conducted on March 14, aimed at curbing smuggling activities in the area. During this operation, while smugglers initially evaded naval patrol, they were eventually intercepted by a land patrol unit. As a result, 71 bags of smuggled rice were confiscated, with suspects fleeing upon sight of the patrol.
In addition to the rice seizure, intelligence led the Navy to discover 5,850 litres of petrol in 234 jerry cans at a beach near Bollington. This petrol was believed to be intended for illegal export to the Benin Republic. Four vehicles linked to the smuggling operation were found on-site, although the suspects had already escaped with their keys. Further operations resulted in an additional seizure of 7,770 litres of petrol in various communities within Badagry.
On specific dates, the Navy seized 6,770 litres of petrol on March 7 from a filling station and an additional 1,000 litres on March 8 from Farasime community, based on prior intelligence. These operations were handled with the aim of preventing the illegal products from circulating in the operational area.
Captain Omotayo emphasized the Navy’s commitment to intensifying efforts against smuggling and criminal activities in the Badagry-Porto Novo creeks, in line with directives from the Federal Government and strategic initiatives from higher naval command. He issued a warning to all involved in illegal activities and assured continued cooperation with other agencies, particularly the Nigeria Customs Service, ensuring support for local communities.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Navy’s initiatives in curbing smuggling along the Badagry creeks have resulted in significant seizures of both petrol and foreign rice. The operations, guided by actionable intelligence, demonstrate the Navy’s commitment to enforcing laws and protecting national interests. Continued cooperation with other agencies reinforces the Navy’s strategy to mitigate criminal activities in the region.
Original Source: nannews.ng
