Navy seizes illegal mining Boats in Bayelsa, arrests 13 suspects

The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two wooden boats allegedly involved in illegal mining activities in Bayelsa State and arrested 13 persons suspected to be part of the operation.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the director of naval information who said the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO following credible intelligence.

According to him, the boats were tracked to coastal communities in Brass Local Government Area, where they were believed to be transporting illegally mined black sand.

Acting on the intelligence, naval operatives reportedly intercepted the vessels at Lekeson and Liama communities, where they discovered large quantities of suspected illegally extracted materials onboard.

The 13 crew members on the boats were immediately taken into custody.

Folorunsho explained that the operation reflects the Navy’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal exploitation of Nigeria’s natural resources, particularly within the maritime environment.

He added that the intercepted boats, the recovered materials, and the arrested suspects have since been handed over to the divisional police officer of Nembe division for further investigation and possible prosecution, in line with established procedures.

The Navy restated its commitment to sustaining operations against illegal resource extraction and other maritime crimes, noting that it will continue working with relevant agencies to secure Nigeria’s waterways and protect economic assets.