‘No Need for Investigation’: Nigerian Military Explains Why Vessel Caught With Illegal Crude Was Set Ablaze

‘No Need for Investigation’: Nigerian Military Explains Why Vessel Caught With Illegal Crude Was Set Ablaze

  • The Nigerian military has provided an explanation as to why the vessel caught with illegal crude was set ablaze
  • The destruction of the vessel sparked reactions among Nigerians, given the name of the owner was yet to be released to the public
  • However, the Nigerian army says there is no need for investigation, and its action is very acceptable

The Nigerian military has defended its action to destroy a vessel used to transport crude illegally from Nigeria.

The destruction was within the space of 48 hours the vessel was caught by security operatives in the creeks of Warri, Delta state.

This immediately raised questions among Nigerians since the real owner of the vessel had not been apprehended.

Nigerian military destroy vessel
Nigerian military destroyed vessels Credit: Saharareporters
Source: Facebook

Why we destroyed the vessel

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has come out to explain that the quick destruction of the vessel was in line with the rules of engagement.

Read also

Polaris Bank's mail to staff Banning Friday prayers by Muslims draws backlash, bank clarifies statement

PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!

He also noted that there is no investigation is needed to carry out the action.

ChannelsTV reports that Irabor gave this explanation on Friday after a National Security Council meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari at Aso Villa in Abuja.

His words

“There are various approaches, various solutions to a problem and at any time based on certain factors, certain considerations, available to those that are at the frontline, actions are taken based on the directive which are contained in the rules of engagement.
“So, the burning of the vessel, it is because the thief was caught in the act and the procedure, if you are caught in the act, is that everything you are using to undertake that criminal activity should be destroyed and that was done.

Read also

Ukraine grain ships stuck in Istanbul traffic jam

“What investigation do you need that you find somebody who decided to deplore several pumping machines and has several hoses that are deployed to a dug out pit where crude oil is stored over a period?"

He also added that the vessel was caught in the act, so an operation instrument was normally destroyed.

Irabor stated further:

"I think it is straightforward. Whether that is the best is a different matter entirely but did they act in line with the rules of engagement? Yes, they did.”

Oil companies take investments to Libya

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had earlier reported that oil companies are taking their investment to Libya after the country's long decade of war lookover.

The report noted that the oil companies have expressed their desire to invest in Libya due to the recently found stability.

It was also noted that the international oil companies leaving Nigeria due to an increase in bunkering and vandalism of oil facilities

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Dave Ibemere avatar

Dave Ibemere (Senior Business Editor) Dave Ibemere is a senior business editor at Legit.ng. He is a financial journalist with over a decade of experience in print and online media. He also holds a Master's degree from the University of Lagos. He is a member of the African Academy for Open-Source Investigation (AAOSI), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and other media think tank groups. He previously worked with The Guardian, BusinessDay, and headed the business desk at Ripples Nigeria. Email: dave.ibemere@corp.legit.ng.