The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has commenced investigation into eight suspected oil thieves in Port Harcourt Rivers State, following their arrest by the Nigerian Navy.
The Commission disclosed this in a post shared on its official X handle, noting that the suspects were handed over by the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder on March 23 2026.
According to the EFCC, the suspects were earlier arrested on March 22 by the Navy’s Anti Crude Oil Theft team during a patrol around Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo areas of the state.
The suspects were reportedly apprehended alongside two boats conveying about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.
Speaking during the handover, a representative of the Naval Base Commander Lt. Commander J.J. Jerome, said the operation followed intelligence reports on illegal activities within the area.
“On March 21 at about 22:15 hours, the patrol team departed the base for 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 individuals escorting the boats fled on sighting the naval team, while eight suspects were arrested in connection with the activity.
Jerome noted that the handover was carried out in line with established procedures guiding the arrest and prosecution of maritime related offences.
Receiving the suspects on behalf of the Commission, an EFCC official Chioma Emerole, commended the Navy for what she described as strong collaboration in tackling economic crimes.
She said the Commission would carry out further investigation and ensure that those found culpable were prosecuted.
EFCC begins probe of eight suspected oil thieves in Port Harcourt
