Troops Intercept $3 Million in Suspected Stolen Crude Oil, Arrest 24 Suspects in Calabar
In a significant maritime security operation, troops of the Joint Task Force South South Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) have intercepted suspected illegally refined crude products valued at $3 million and arrested 24 suspects in Calabar, Cross River State. The operation, which underscores ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and economic sabotage, was disclosed by Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, Commander of OPDS, during a briefing with journalists in Calabar.
Details of the Interception and Arrests
The interception occurred on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at approximately 11:45 p.m., when troops, acting on credible intelligence, arrested two vessels, Motor Tanker Mkpodu and Motor Tanker Westaf, in the Calabar/Akwa Ibom maritime area. According to Rear Admiral Oladipo, the vessels, carrying 26 crew members, were apprehended at a wellhead within the Joint Operation Area while engaged in crude oil theft. Motor Tanker Mkpodu was caught siphoning crude oil and was laden with about 480 metric tonnes, while Motor Tanker Westaf had about 459 metric tonnes of suspected stolen crude.
Following the arrests, Nigerian Navy Ship Shere and a Nigerian Navy 410 Helicopter were deployed to the scene. The helicopter provided real-time aerial imagery, while the ship secured the vessels offshore. Additionally, Nigerian Navy Ship Ose, alongside elements of the Forward Operating Base Ibaka, facilitated the transfer of the vessels and crew to the Navy jetty in Calabar.
Expanded Investigation and Further Arrests
Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of a third vessel, Motor Tanker Stelios K, by Nigerian Navy Ship Gongola on April 10, 2026, over suspected crude oil theft. Rear Admiral Oladipo emphasized that this operation reflects the commitment of the Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Navy to curb crude oil theft through inter-agency collaboration and intelligence gathering.
While presenting the suspects at the Nigerian Navy Ship Victory jetty, Oladipo highlighted that the operation underscores the task force's mandate to combat crude oil theft, economic sabotage, and secure oil and gas installations within the Joint Operations Area. He attributed the success of the operation to the support of the Chief of Defence Staff, as well as the Chief of the Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, noting that the deployment of naval and air force assets was instrumental.
Broader Context and Ongoing Efforts
In his remarks, the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, revealed that one additional vessel linked to the operation had earlier been arrested in Bonny, while efforts were ongoing to track three more vessels. He commended the OPDS commander for his support and expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, adding that further arrests were expected.
Rear Admiral Oladipo added that efforts would continue to tackle crude oil theft, which he said depletes the country's economic resources. Data on crude oil losses show a concerning trend: Nigeria lost about 20.9 million barrels in 2022, averaging 57,200 barrels per day. In 2023, losses dropped to about 4.3 million barrels, with a daily average of 11,900 barrels, while in 2024, losses were estimated at 4.1 million barrels, averaging 11,300 barrels per day. Between January and July 2025, the country recorded losses of about 2.04 million barrels, representing an average of 9,600 barrels per day.
This operation highlights the persistent challenge of crude oil theft in Nigeria and the military's intensified efforts to protect national assets through coordinated maritime security measures.
