Nigerian Navy Prevents Huge Petrol Product Siphoning in Lagos

Rebecca Ejifoma

In safeguarding the national interest and protecting critical infrastructure, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT patrol team has prevented a huge siphoning of petroleum products.

This outcome was in collaboration with the Maritime Component of Operation AWATSE led by the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga.

The NNS BEECROFT patrol team discovered two punctured points on the NNPCL pipeline between Atlas Cove and Ijegun, Lagos, on November 1.

As noted in a statement issued yesterday, the patrol team’s swift response followed Human Intelligence (HUMINT).

The NNS added that saboteurs connected hoses and pumping machines from those points to siphon huge quantities of petrol conveyed by the pipeline.

“This innovative approach has proven to be a game-changer, resulting in a remarkable increase in the team’s ability to detect and deter criminal activities along the NNPCL pipeline,” the statement read in part.

The Nigerian Navy’s effort is in its commitment to eradicate pipeline vandalism by harnessing technology and HUMINT for operational efficiency.

Accordingly, it said such an act poses a significant threat to the country’s product availability and the economic well-being of Nigerians.

It said: “This action by the naval team has preserved national infrastructure and availability of petroleum products as well as averts outbreak of catastrophic fire with attendant consequences on life and property.”

While the NNS has alerted the NNPCL, it said immediate repairs are underway to stall losses.

The NNS BEECROFT added that efforts were ongoing to detect and rectify other potential vulnerabilities on the pipeline, ensuring a comprehensive approach to deter future illicit activities.

“This discovery brings to the fore that the Nigerian navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral E.I Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and fostering economic prosperity for our country.

“The Nigerian navy is proud to be at the forefront of combating pipeline vandalism, and ensuring a safer and more prosperous Nigeria,” the statement added.