EMEA News
Nigerian Authorities Detain Two Vessels Accused of Stealing Crude Oil
A ship and a tug boat have been detained by the Nigerian Navy after authorities suspected the two vessels of attempting to steal 6,000 metric tonnes of crude, local media reports.
The ship MT Dera and tugboat Runner Charley were caught by law enforcement near the Eremor 1 Marginal Oil Field, with all 11 crew of both ships in custody, according to Navy Lieutenant Commander Eddie Yeibo.
The barge was arrested at a point where there was no loading point," said Rear Admiral Apochi Suleiman in an official statement released by the Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command.
“But rather, the crude was suspected to be stolen from a well head at the Eremor 1 Marginal Field.’’
In the statement, the Navy also reportedly reaffirmed its zero tolerance stance on crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal oil bunkering.
Earlier this month, Ship & Bunker reported that Nigerian authorities also arrested another ocean going vessel and a barge in connection with suspected loading of stolen crude.
