Bayelsa: Navy intercepts boat with 4,000 baggage Of suspected unlawful black sand, arrests 8

The Nigerian Navy has intercepted a wood boat conveying 4,000 baggage of suspected illegally mined black sand and arrested eight crew members in Bayelsa state.

The operation was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO at about 7:58pm on November 11, 2026, at Tebidaba 2 Houseboat.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the boat supervisor, recognized as Mr Abraham, failed to provide legitimate paperwork authorising the transportation of the mineral assets.

A doc subsequently introduced by one Mr Theophilus, who claimed possession of the cargo, was additionally discovered inadequate to ascertain the legality of the operation.

The Navy mentioned the suspects, boat and cargo have been initially secured at Tebidaba 2 Houseboat for additional investigation.

However, the vessel was later found to be in a poor situation, with extreme water ingress.

Consequently, at about 10:30pm on November 12, the eight suspects, OALEside the boat and its contents, have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force at Ologbobiri in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area (LGA) of Bayelsa state.

The handover was performed in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Security Coordinator for additional investigation and needed motion.

The Commanding Officer, FOB FORMOSO, Capt. SK Haruna, recommended the personnel for his or her vigilance and professionalism, describing the interception as an illustration of the Base’s dedication to safeguarding the maritime surroundings and stopping the unlawful exploitation of pure assets.

Haruna warned that felony actions wouldn’t be tolerated inside the waterways, stressing the Navy’s resolve to disclaim perpetrators secure havens within the maritime area.

He additionally suggested miners to acquire the mandatory approvals from each federal and state governments earlier than partaking in mining actions or transporting mineral assets.

The Navy reiterated Its dedication to curbing unlawful actions and strengthening safety throughout the nation’s maritime surroundings.