In a statement released on their official social media channels, the Navy reported, “On Wednesday, August 2, 2024, personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH intercepted and arrested three individuals found in possession of two fiber boats and one wooden boat laden with illegally refined AGO in Igbomotoru, Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State.”

Following the arrest, the suspects were transferred to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation.

In a separate operation, the Navy's patrol team apprehended another three individuals suspected of engaging in illegal bunkering activities. After conducting essential interrogations, the team discovered and impounded a large wooden boat loaded with illegally refined products in Bassambiri, Bayelsa State.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to NSCDC operatives in Nembe, Bayelsa State, as authorities continue their crackdown on illegal refining and bunkering in the region.