Navy Intercepts Illegal Petrol and Foreign Rice in Lagos Operations
The Nigerian Navy has seized 13,800 liters of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice in Badagry during operations from March 7 to 14, based on intelligence about smuggling. The Navy has intensified efforts against illegal activities in the area, ensuring cooperation with the Nigeria Customs Service.
The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted significant quantities of illicit goods in operations along Badagry creeks. Specifically, 13,800 liters of petrol and 71 bags of foreign rice were seized between March 7 and 14. According to Navy Captain Oyeleye Omotayo, these operations were initiated based on intelligence regarding suspected smuggling activities in the region.
One key operation targeting smugglers commenced on March 14 at 2:54 a.m., focusing on stopping products destined for illegal export. Although smugglers initially evaded water patrols, they were captured by a land patrol unit shortly afterwards, leading to the interception of foreign rice. The suspects fled upon spotting the patrol, prompting the navy to take control of the seized items for further necessary action.
In another operation on the same day, intelligence reports at 12:15 a.m. alerted naval teams to stockpiles of petrol at a beach near Bollington. Upon investigation, four vehicles intended for smuggling were found, though the suspects managed to escape. The navy discovered and confiscated 234 jerry cans holding a total of 5,850 liters of petrol at the site.
Additionally, the navy reported seizing 7,770 liters of petrol in other operations across Badagry communities. This included 6,770 liters confiscated on March 7 from a filling station, alongside multiple empty jerry cans, and another 1,000 liters discovered in Farasime community on March 8.
Captain Omotayo emphasized that 7,950 liters of petrol taken from various sources on March 7 and 8 were handled appropriately to prevent re-circulation in commercial markets. He also noted an increase in efforts by the Navy to address smuggling and criminal activity along critical waterways, underlining their ongoing collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service and support to local communities.
The Nigerian Navy’s recent operations in Badagry successfully intercepted large amounts of illicit petrol and foreign rice, conducted between March 7 and 14. These actions reflect the Navy’s commitment to combating smuggling as per federal directives, with assurances to collaborate with other government agencies to uphold legal enforcement and protect local communities.
Original Source: nannews.ng
