EFCC Launches Probe into Eight Suspected Oil Thieves Arrested in Rivers

|By Chinwendu Nwani

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into eight suspected oil thieves in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, following their arrest by the Nigerian Navy.

The anti-graft agency disclosed this in a statement shared on its official X handle, noting that the suspects were handed over by Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder on March 23, 2026.

According to the EFCC, the suspects were apprehended a day earlier by the Navy’s Anti-Crude Oil Theft Team during a patrol operation around Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo communities. The operation led to the seizure of two wooden boats loaded with about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

Speaking during the handover, a representative of the Naval Base Commander, J. J. Jerome, said the operation was driven by actionable intelligence on illegal refining activities within the area.

“On March 21 at about 22:15 hours, the patrol team departed the base for a routine operation. At about 01:15 hours the next day, they intercepted two wooden boats laden with products suspected to be illegally refined AGO,” he said.

He added that some armed escorts accompanying the boats fled upon sighting the naval team, while eight suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal operation.

Jerome noted that the suspects were handed over to the EFCC in line with standard procedures guiding the prosecution of maritime-related offences.

Receiving the suspects on behalf of the Commission, Chioma Emerole commended the Navy for its strong collaboration in the fight against economic and financial crimes.

She assured that the Commission would conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all those found culpable face prosecution.