Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian Navy has arrested two vessels, MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf AF, in a major crackdown on crude oil theft, seizing more than 939 metric tons of suspected stolen crude valued at over N4 billion. The operation, carried out in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, underscores intensified efforts by security agencies to combat economic sabotage and protect the country’s critical oil infrastructure.
The arrests were confirmed during a briefing in Calabar, Cross River State, by Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, Commander of the Joint Task Force South-South operating under Operation Delta Safe. He disclosed that the operation followed credible intelligence received on April 8, prompting a swift and coordinated response by naval units within the Calabar and Akwa Ibom operational axis.
According to the Navy, the vessels were intercepted at a wellhead where they were allegedly engaged in illegal crude oil extraction. One of the vessels, MT Mkpodu, was reportedly caught in the process of siphoning crude oil at the time of interception, highlighting the scale and immediacy of the illegal operation. Authorities described the act as part of a broader network of organized oil theft that continues to undermine Nigeria’s economy.
A total of 26 crew members were arrested in connection with the operation. Naval officials confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, after which they are expected to face prosecution in accordance with laws governing petroleum theft and maritime offenses in Nigeria.
Rear Admiral Oladipo explained that the success of the operation was due to close collaboration among various security agencies. The Office of the National Security Adviser and the Chief of Defence Staff provided strategic intelligence and operational backing, while naval assets were rapidly deployed to execute the mission.
He further revealed that Nigerian Navy Ship SHERE, supported by a naval helicopter, was mobilized to the scene. The helicopter conducted aerial surveillance, providing real-time intelligence on the movement and activities of the vessels, while the naval ship secured the area to prevent escape or interference.
Following the interception, Nigerian Navy Ship OSE and personnel from the Forward Operating Base in Ibaka were tasked with escorting the vessels and their crew safely to the Navy’s jetty in Calabar. This ensured proper custody of both suspects and exhibits, preserving evidence for further investigation and legal proceedings.
The Navy emphasized that the operation forms part of a sustained campaign under Operation Delta Safe aimed at curbing crude oil theft and related crimes in the Niger Delta. Oil theft, often referred to as illegal bunkering, has remained a major challenge for Nigeria, resulting in significant revenue losses and environmental damage over the years.
Security authorities have repeatedly warned that oil theft has evolved into a complex and highly organized criminal enterprise involving sophisticated methods and networks. These networks often exploit remote waterways and weak surveillance areas to carry out illegal activities, making enforcement efforts particularly challenging.
Recent military data indicates that efforts to combat oil theft have intensified across the region. In the first quarter of 2026 alone, security forces reportedly dismantled more than 100 illegal refining sites and arrested over 200 suspects linked to oil theft operations. Large quantities of stolen petroleum products were also recovered during these operations, reflecting both the scale of the problem and the growing determination of authorities to address it.
The Nigerian Navy has also conducted several targeted operations in recent months, particularly in Rivers and other Niger Delta states, intercepting illegal petroleum products and destroying illicit refining infrastructure. These actions are part of broader measures aimed at disrupting supply chains and dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal oil trade.
Rear Admiral Oladipo stated that the arrest of MT Mkpodu and MT Westaf AF sends a clear signal to those involved in oil theft that security agencies are intensifying surveillance and enforcement across the country’s maritime domain. He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding national resources and ensuring that perpetrators of economic sabotage are brought to justice.
The Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, also commended the operation and assured continued support for anti-oil theft initiatives. He emphasized that sustained pressure on criminal elements would lead to more breakthroughs and help restore confidence in Nigeria’s oil sector.
In a related development, the Navy confirmed that another vessel, MT Steliosk, was apprehended in a separate operation on April 10, further demonstrating the scale of ongoing enforcement activities across the region.
Analysts have noted that while recent successes represent meaningful progress, long-term solutions to oil theft will require a comprehensive approach. This includes strengthening surveillance systems, improving legal enforcement, enhancing inter-agency cooperation, and addressing underlying socio-economic challenges in oil-producing communities.
The Niger Delta has long faced issues of poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation, factors that some experts say contribute to the persistence of illegal activities such as oil theft. Addressing these root causes is seen as critical to achieving lasting stability and reducing incentives for criminal involvement.
For now, the interception of vessels carrying stolen crude worth billions of naira marks a significant victory for Nigeria’s security forces. With investigations ongoing and suspects in custody, authorities say they remain focused on dismantling oil theft networks and protecting the nation’s economic lifeline.
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