Nigerian Navy Arrests 13 Over Illegal Mining In Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two wooden boats conveying suspected illegally mined black sand in Bayelsa State.

Thirteen suspects were also arrested during the operation, which formed part of the Navy’s ongoing campaign against illegal exploitation of natural resources and maritime crimes.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho disclosed the development in a statement, saying the operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base Formoso.

Folorunsho said the naval operatives acted on credible intelligence about the movement of boats suspected of being involved in illegal mining activities within coastal communities in the Brass Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, the boats were intercepted at Lekeson and Liama communities, where large quantities of suspected illegally mined black sand were discovered on board.

“A total of 13 crew members were arrested in connection with the activity,” Folorunsho stated.

Folorunsho said the successful operation demonstrated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime environment and curbing the illegal exploitation of natural resources.

He noted that illegal resource extraction posed serious threats to economic development and environmental sustainability.

“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.

Folorunsho added that, in line with existing procedures and directives of the Bayelsa State Government, the two wooden boats, the recovered black sand, and the 13 suspects were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer, Nembe Division.

He said the handover was for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The naval officer reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime resources.

He said the Navy would continue to ensure that the nation’s waterways remain secure for legitimate economic activities.

The latest operation, according to him, forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, maritime crimes and other activities that threaten the sustainable management of Nigeria’s natural resources.