The Nigerian Navy has arrested 13 persons suspected of engaging in illegal mining activities in Bayelsa State and intercepted two wooden boats conveying large quantities of black sand believed to have been illegally mined.
The Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, describing the operation as part of ongoing efforts to curb the unlawful exploitation of the country’s natural resources.
According to Folorunsho, the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base FORMOSO following intelligence reports about boats allegedly involved in illegal mining activities within coastal communities of Brass Local Government Area.
He said naval operatives acted on the information and intercepted the vessels at Lekeson and Liama communities.
“Acting on the intelligence, naval personnel intercepted the boats at Lekeson and Liama communities, where large quantities of suspected illegally mined black sand were discovered onboard,” Folorunsho said.
The Navy spokesperson added that 13 crew members found on the vessels were arrested in connection with the alleged illegal activity.
“A total of 13 crew members were arrested in connection with the activity,” he stated.
Folorunsho said the successful operation demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and preventing the illegal extraction of natural resources.
“The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in sustaining operations against illegal resource extraction and other maritime crimes, while maintaining security and stability within the nation’s waterways,” he said.
He further disclosed that the two boats, the recovered black sand, and the suspects had been handed over to the Divisional Police Officer of the Nembe Division for further investigation and possible prosecution.
According to him, the handover was carried out in line with existing procedures and directives of the Bayelsa State Government.
Folorunsho reaffirmed the Navy’s readiness to work with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to safeguard the nation’s maritime resources and ensure the waterways remain secure for legitimate economic activities.
