The Nigerian Navy has seized more than 168 drums allegedly filled with petroleum product and suspected to be adulterated diesel, an official said.
About 18 suspected oil thieves, including 16 men and two women were caught loading the illegally refined diesel into eight large wooden boats before their arrest.
Base Operations Officer, Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder, Port Harcourt Murtala Rogo, handing over the suspects and exhibits to the Rivers Police Command on Friday.
According to him, the boats were intercepted during a major raid by naval forces around Bakana Creek in Port Harcourt.
Rogo said the naval headquarters later directed the handover of the suspects and exhibits to the police to commence full blown investigation to the allegations.
The naval officer expressed optimism the arrest and prosecution of the suspects in court would serve as deterrent to youths willing to indulge in maritime crime.
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