NEDU MARK, Yenagoa
Operatives of the Joint Military Task force JTF, codenamed; Operation Polu Shield, in Niger Delta region has impounded a merchant vessel ( MV) EUROPORT and a truck laden with over 34,500 metric tons of illegal crude oil substances.
JTF said the arrest of the vessel and truck is to assure Nigerians of the Commands vigor and determination in war against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other criminal activities affecting the socio- economic development of the Niger Delta region.
The command said the seized vessel and truck are now in the custody of JTF pending investigation of the crimes.
Briefing journalists yesterday at the Command Headquarter, Opolo, Bayelsa state, Spokesman of the command and coordinator, Joint Media Centre, JTF, Lt Col Isa Ado said the merchant vessel ( MV ) EUROPORT was arrested at Forupa creek in Southern Ijaw local government Area, Bayelsa state by patrol team of JTF at 0230hrs.
Lt Col Ado said the 2000 metric tons vessel when arrested on June 2, 2015 was discovered carrying 1,500 metric tons of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil AGO.
He insisted that during the seizure of the vessel, the suspected crew boarded a speed boat and sailed into the high sea on sighting JTF troops.
Similarly, LT Col Ado said troops of JTF operating along Eleme Area in Port Harcourt, Rivets State impounded an illegal oil bunkering truck with 33,000 tons capacity loaded with substance suspected to be stolen crude oil.
The command said the seized truck and its contents were destroyed in -situ, noted that no suspect was apprehended, as the driver absconded on sighting the troops.
The seized truck has a registration number; Anambra 784 AWK was arrested at Onne community.
Hear JTF: “It is hope that these arrest will discouraged other intended criminals from any act of illegal oil related crimes which is a severe economic sabotage to out great country Nigeria”
The command solicited for corporation with the public in the war against illegal oil bunkering, pipe line vandalism and other vices in the region to ensure a zero tolerance campaign as to wipe off the miscreants from Niger Delta creeks and waterways.
