As part of ongoing efforts to rid Nigeria’s waterways of illegal activities and maintain a safe and secure maritime environment, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO has arrested two wooden boats conveying bags of illegally mined black sand with 13 crew members onboard.
The operation led by the Base Operations Officer, Lt Cdr US Chukwu was conducted on 14 Jun 26 following credible intelligence on the movement of the boats. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, FOB FORMOSO personnel intercepted the vessels at Lekeson Community and Liama Community in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The Commanding Officer FOB FORMOSO Capt SK Haruna reaffirmed the Base’s commitment to combating the illegal exploitation of natural resources, curbing maritime crimes, and ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s waterways in line with the Nigerian Navy’s constitutional mandate.
In line with established procedures and on the directive of the Bayelsa State Government, the two wooden boats, the recovered bags of illegally mined black sand, and the 13 suspects were handed over on 15 Jun 26 to the Divisional Police Officer, Nembe Division, CSP Gbenekeme Kenneth at the Government Jetty Nembe for further investigation and possible prosecution.