Personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO of the Nigerian Navy have intercepted a wooden boat transporting approximately 4,000 bags of suspected illegally mined black sand in Bayelsa State, arresting eight crew members in a major operation aimed at combating illegal mining and maritime-related criminal activities in the state’s waterways.
The interception took place at about 1958 hours on November 11, 2026, at Tebidaba 2 Houseboat. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vessel’s manager, identified as Mr Abraham, could not provide valid authorisation or documentation permitting the transportation of the mineral resources. A document later submitted by Mr Theophilus, who claimed ownership of the cargo, was also considered insufficient to establish the legality of the consignment and its movement.
Following the discovery, naval personnel secured the suspects, the wooden boat and its cargo at Tebidaba 2 Houseboat for further investigation. However, subsequent observations revealed that the vessel was in a deteriorating condition, with significant water ingress, raising concerns about its seaworthiness and the safety of its continued detention.
In a follow-up development, the eight suspects, together with the intercepted vessel and its 4,000 bags of suspected illegally mined black sand, were formally handed over to the Nigeria Police Force at Ologbobiri in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The handover, which took place at approximately 2230 hours on November 12, 2026, was carried out in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Security Coordinator to facilitate further investigation and appropriate legal action.
Commending the personnel for the successful operation, the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Capt. SK Haruna, praised their vigilance, dedication and professionalism. He described the interception as a demonstration of the Nigerian Navy’s determination to protect the nation’s maritime environment, prevent the unlawful exploitation of natural resources and ensure that criminal activities are not allowed to thrive within the waterways under its operational jurisdiction.
Capt. Haruna further emphasised the importance of compliance with existing mining regulations, urging individuals and companies involved in mineral exploration, mining and transportation to obtain the necessary approvals from both the federal and state governments before commencing operations. He stressed that proper authorisation remains essential to ensuring responsible resource exploitation and preventing illegal activities.
The latest interception underscores the Nigerian Navy’s continued efforts to strengthen maritime security, combat illegal resource exploitation and protect Nigeria’s economic and environmental interests. Through sustained surveillance, intelligence-driven operations and collaboration with relevant security agencies, FOB FORMOSO has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order across the waterways of Bayelsa State.