EMEA News
Seven Found Guilty of Illegal Bunkering in Nigeria
A Nigerian federal court has found seven people guilty of illegal bunkering in Nigerian waters, local media reports.
The individuals were reportedly each sentenced to 10 years in jail on five counts of illegal oil bunkering and dealing in petroleum products without lawful authority or licence.
The group was purportedly caught by the Nigerian Navy in February 2014 with 1,495 metric tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit on board the MT Good Success.
It's owner, Hepa Global Energy Limited, was also reportedly punished.
In handing down the sentence, Justice O.E Abang reportedly said that he hoped that the punishment would serve as an example to others.
Nigeria has been actively looking to combat oil theft in the country, with multiple arrests having been reported over the past few months.
In September, Nigeria also lifted a ban on 100-odd tankers from operating in territorial waters, though it was met with much confusion by operators and owners.
