Nigerian Navy Intercepts Substantial Seizures of Petrol and Foreign Rice in Lagos

The Nigerian Navy’s FOB Badagry has confiscated 13,800 liters of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice during operations from March 7 to March 14. The operations involved intercepting smugglers and have been executed based on specific intelligence regarding illegal activities along Badagry creeks. Navy Captain Oyeleye Omotayo confirmed the successes and emphasized continued efforts to combat smuggling and enforce legal consequences for violators.

The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted a total of 13,800 liters of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice across various operations conducted between March 7 and March 14. Navy Captain Oyeleye Omotayo, the commanding officer, confirmed these seizures in a statement, emphasizing that they were carried out in response to intelligence regarding suspected smuggling activities in the Badagry creeks.

The operations culminated in a targeted raid initiated on March 14 at 2:54 a.m., which focused on apprehending smugglers and halting illegal exports. Although the smugglers evaded detection initially, they were captured by land patrol units around 3:30 a.m. and the contraband was seized as the suspects fled. Omotayo stated that the confiscated rice has been transported to the base for appropriate handling as per procedures.

According to the commanding officer, a tip-off received on the same day led to the discovery of petrol stockpiled at a beach near Bollington. This intelligence suggested that the petrol was intended for smuggling operations into Benin Republic. Although the ghosts of the suspects managed to elude capture, naval forces uncovered four vehicles at the shoreline and a cache of 234 jerry cans, totaling around 5,850 liters of petrol, which were subsequently brought to the base.

In addition, subsequent operations conducted within Badagry resulted in the seizure of an additional 7,770 liters of petrol. Specifically, on March 7, 6,770 liters were seized from a filling station, and on March 8, an additional 1,000 liters were confiscated from the Farasime community, based on intelligence insights.

Navy Captain Omotayo assured that the seized petrol was handled correctly to prevent its re-entry into circulation. He reiterated the Navy’s commitment to intensifying its fight against smuggling in the region, aligning its operations with the Federal Government’s directives. Omotayo urged all individuals involved in illegal activities to cease immediately or risk facing severe legal consequences. He also pledged ongoing collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service and support for the local community.

The Nigerian Navy has intensified efforts to combat smuggling operations in Badagry, successfully seizing substantial quantities of petrol and foreign rice in multiple operations. Through strategic intelligence and prompt action, these efforts aim to ensure compliance with the law and maintain order in the region. The Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to law enforcement and collaboration with other agencies.

Original Source: nannews.ng