In an unrelenting pursuit against crude oil theft, the private security firm Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSL), commissioned by the federal government, has made another significant arrest. The vessel named MT Kally, carrying thousands of metric tonnes of stolen crude oil, was apprehended in a joint operation with the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The incident follows closely on the heels of the launch of “Operations Delta Sanity” by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, aimed at curbing maritime criminal activities in the Niger Delta.
Sources indicate that the MT Kally was seized while anchored at an NNPCL location in Oporoza, Delta State. Allegedly involved in illicitly loading crude oil from the offshore Sokebolou field in Bayelsa, the vessel’s crew and local collaborators were apprehended by Tantita and NSCDC operatives.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the first manifold of the vessel had been filled before the intervention of security agents. TSSL promptly notified the National Security Advisor, Mallam Shehu Ribadu, and the NNPCL management about the arrest.
In a video clip obtained by THISDAY, the captain and engineer of the vessel, Adeboye David and Promise Eze, along with local accomplices from oil communities in Bayelsa, were detained on board for further interrogation. During questioning, Adeboye and Eze disclosed that the vessel was hired from Lagos to illegally load crude oil from offshore locations in Bayelsa. They claimed assurances from an unidentified boss, who allegedly received approvals from various security agencies for unhindered access to the manifold.
Captain Warredi Enisuoh, Director of Operations of TSSL, confirmed the vessel’s arrest and the ongoing investigation into the incident.
