In a remarkable display of maritime security expertise, the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, under Operation WATER GUARD, has successfully apprehended a wooden boat transporting over 800 jerricans, each filled with 30 litres of suspected Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Forward Operating Base Badagry, harnessed credible human intelligence (HUMINT) and the Maritime Domain Awareness Facility, The Falcon Eye Alignment.
The interception occurred approximately 80 nautical miles from the shoreline, near the boundary between Nigeria and Benin Republic, during the early hours of Friday, 19 January 2024. The coordinated efforts of the naval patrol team, operating under the strategic leadership of Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT and Maritime Component Commander of Operation AWATSE, resulted in the successful prevention of what is believed to be an illegal smuggling operation.
Commodore Oguntuga highlighted the alignment of this accomplishment with the strategic directives of Vice Admiral El Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff. The Chief of the Naval Staff emphasizes the Navy's unwavering commitment to eradicating crime and criminal activities in the nation's maritime environment, ultimately contributing to the economic prosperity of Nigeria.
The commander assured that the Nigerian Navy will maintain its dominance in the maritime space, utilizing technology and other means to suppress illegal activities. He urged Nigerians to continue providing credible information, crucial for ensuring the safety of the maritime environment, and allowing legitimate businesses to thrive.
Accompanying this press release are video clips offering visual documentation of the successful interception. The Nigerian Navy's resolute efforts underline its dedication to securing the nation's waters and upholding the rule of law.