Operatives of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Amatu Unit, have intercepted a vessel suspected of conveying illegally refined crude oil in the early hours of Monday, May 18, 2026.
In a statement issued by the Company on Friday, 22 May 2026, the vessel, identified as MV Augustina, was apprehended along the waterways between River Dodo and River Ramos while sailing from the Pennington River axis towards an unknown destination.
According to the statement, the intelligence-driven operation resulted from sustained surveillance of creeks and waterways known for crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.
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At the time of the interception, the vessel had nine crew members on board, with suspects currently being profiled as investigations intensify to trace the source of the crude oil, identify the intended buyers, and uncover the masterminds behind the illegal operation.
The statement added that Tantita Security Services will sustain the tempo of the ongoing battle against oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.
It noted that the interception adds to a series of recent achievements by Tantita Security Services in supporting federal authorities to curb crude oil theft across the Niger Delta.
