The Nigerian Navy has recorded another operational breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against illegal exploitation of natural resources, intercepting two wooden boats laden with suspected illegally mined black sand and arresting 13 suspects in Bayelsa State.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO following credible intelligence on the movement of boats allegedly involved in illegal mining activities within coastal communities in Brass Local Government Area of the state.
Acting on the intelligence, naval operatives intercepted the boats at Lekeson and Liama communities, where large quantities of suspected illegally mined black sand were discovered onboard. Thirteen crew members were subsequently arrested in connection with the illegal activity.
The Navy stated that the successful interception underscores its continued commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and curbing the illegal extraction of natural resources that undermine economic growth and environmental sustainability.
It added that the Service remains resolute in sustaining operations against maritime crimes, including illegal resource exploitation, while ensuring security and stability across the nation’s waterways.
In line with established procedures and directives of the Bayelsa State Government, the intercepted boats, the recovered black sand, and the 13 suspects were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Nembe Division, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant security agencies and stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s maritime assets and ensure the waterways remain safe for legitimate economic activities.
