The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base FORMOSO, Baylesa, has arrested two motor vessels and 12 crew members over alleged violation of maritime laws.
The Commanding Officer, Capt. Murtala Rogo, disclosed this on Saturday while handing over the vessels and suspects to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency in Bayelsa.
Rogo, who was represented by the Executive Officer, Commander M.A. Gada, said that the vessels, MV Rig Runner and MV Celtic Ebenezer were arrested on April 2 and May 2 respectively.
“They were arrested by our patrol teams, around Madu Oilfield, off the coast of Bayelsa.
“Both vessels were found to be transiting with their automatic identification systems switched off, this is a violation of maritime law, ” he said.
The commanding officer said that the navy remained committed to the campaign against illegal bunkering, crude oil theft and all other forms of waterway crime.