By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal exploitation of natural resources with the interception of two wooden boats conveying illegally mined black sand and the arrest of 13 suspects in Bayelsa State.
The operation, carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO, followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected illegal miners operating within coastal communities in Brass Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the naval team intercepted the boats at Lekeson and Liama communities, where large quantities of suspected illegally mined black sand were discovered onboard.
The statement revealed that all 13 crew members aboard the boats were arrested in connection with the illegal activity.
The Nigerian Navy said the operation reflects its continued commitment to protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and preventing activities that threaten the nation’s natural resources, economic development and environmental sustainability.
It added that the Navy remains determined to sustain operations against illegal resource extraction, maritime crimes and other activities capable of undermining security along the nation’s waterways.
In line with existing procedures and directives of the Bayelsa State Government, the two wooden boats, recovered black sand and the arrested suspects were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Nembe Division, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime resources and ensure that the country’s waterways remain secure for legitimate economic activities.
