An unlawful fuel storage site was uncovered by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft in the heart of Ilasun Lekki, located at No 3 Silver Bird Road. Following the discovery, law enforcement officials detained five suspects linked to the operation.
Mr. Ahmed Ariyo, the mastermind behind the syndicate, was apprehended along with four accomplices in a clandestine private residence where they conducted their illicit operations.
As per a declaration from Lieutenant Hussaini Ibrahim, spokesperson for NNS Beecroft, Commodore Rafiu Taye Oladejo, Commander of NNS Beecroft, revealed during a press briefing that the revelation of the illicit fuel storage site followed credible intelligence received regarding suspicious undertakings at Elegushi beach.
He reiterated that this warranted the immediate deployment of NNS Beecroft’s Quick Response Team to the site, ultimately resulting in the discovery and apprehension of the individuals involved.
Commodore Oladejo elaborated on the situation, disclosing that the illegal fuel depot comprised 8 storage tanks, each with a capacity of 50,000 liters, containing an estimated 57,000 liters of AGO. Additionally, authorities found a tanker carrying about 7,000 liters and a bus loaded with 30 jerry cans, totaling approximately 1,500 liters.
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The total products discovered is about 65,000 litres of AGO which is estimated to be about 89 million Naira based on the current price of AGO (₦1,350).
While estimating the total capacity of the storage facility found in the apartment, the Commander said the 8 storage tanks if filled with AGO will be about 400,000 litres which is approximately 500 million Naira.
He further explained that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects possibly got the products through pipeline vandalism, illegal vendors at sea as well as other illegal means along the coastline.
Commodore Oladejo reiterated that NNS Beecroft will not relent in its efforts to pursuing oil thieves and other criminal elements as directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu.
He reiterated his commitment to law-abiding citizens, expressing NNS Beecroft’s unwavering determination to eradicate all forms of maritime crimes within the Lagos maritime region. He emphasized the necessity of fostering an environment conducive to the advancement of socioeconomic activities.
In a concluding move, the Commander formally relinquished control of the suspects, the seized commodities, and the premises to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, paving the way for in-depth scrutiny and potential legal action.