Joyce Mmereole Okoli
In a groundbreaking victory against illegal oil activities, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, in partnership with the Nigerian Police Force, achieves a significant win as the Federal High Court in Abuja orders the forfeiture of the illegal crude oil vessel, MT Kali, and its contents to the Federal Government.
The court’s decision marks a pivotal moment in recent efforts to prosecute oil thieves and their accomplices. Notably, 20 crew members, including community boys involved, were arrested in the operation, showcasing a robust collaborative effort between Tantita and the police.
In the charge labeled FHC/ABJ/CR/18/2024 B/W: INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE V. MT KALI & 22 ORS, the vessel and its crew were arraigned before Justice J.O. Abdulmalik. Justice Abdulmalik granted the motion for the interim forfeiture of MT Kali and its content to the Federal Government.
However, the arraignment faced a setback as the suspects were not produced in court by the office of the Chief of Defence Staff, prompting concerns about the trial’s continuity.
The court warned that the charge might not survive beyond the next adjournment date if the prosecution fails to secure the attendance of the defendants.
Tantita’s success in apprehending the illegal oil bunkering ship, MT Kali, on January 11th, 2024, during an operation in collaboration with the special security task force led by Vice-Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, reflects a commitment to curbing illicit activities.
Led by Executive Director Captain Warredi Enisuoh and the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, the prosecution of the case exemplifies dexterity and patriotic zeal.
Egbetokun directed the Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering to investigate the arrest of MT Kali, showcasing a comprehensive approach to combatting such activities.
Further investigations led to the subsequent arrest of another illegal bunkering ship, MT HARBOR SPIRIT, on February 4th, stealing crude oil from Sengana oilfields in Bayelsa State.
The diligent coordination of Enisuoh and Mr. Omar John Sini from the IGP-STPIB ensures a continued effort to prosecute both bunkering ships and their crew members, with MT Harbor Spirit set to be arraigned on March 1st, 2024.