Amidst the rising scarcity and high cost of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) in Nigeria, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd (TSSNL) has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal oil bunkering. The security outfit, operated by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, intercepted a major crude oil loading point at the Cawthorne Channel Flow Station in Rivers State.
The flow station, located in the Bonny area and operated by Sahara Energy, was previously managed by Eroton Exploration and Production Company Ltd. The illegal operation was discovered during a routine patrol by Tantita operatives, who came across oil thieves siphoning crude oil from a barge into a wooden boat.
Tantita impounded the barge, AGS 01, along with a tugboat named MV AMS 02 and the wooden boat used for the illegal operation. The images and videos from the scene reveal TSSNL operatives on top of the seized equipment, shutting down the operation.
Despite the success of this bust, questions loom over the involvement of other stakeholders. Concerns have been raised about the presence of military personnel at the Cawthorne Channel Flow Station and whether they might have been complicit in the theft. The presence of a wooden boat filled with crude oil raises serious concerns. This could only happen with backing from unscrupulous members of the military or officials of the oil company, one industry insider commented. The fact that a wooden boat was being used to transport crude oil has further fueled suspicions about the extent of corruption in the system.
While Tantita’s efforts are commendable, the identities of the crew involved in the bunkering operation have yet to be revealed, and no government security agency has taken responsibility for the discovery. Furthermore, TSSNL's top management, including Managing Director Engineer Keston Pondi and Executive Director Captain Warredi Enisuoh, have been unavailable for comment.
Industry stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and accountability. One source pointed out, This is obviously a crude oil theft operation backed by powerful individuals. The government and the public need to take this seriously and support Tantita's efforts.
With Nigeria facing challenges in its oil sector, this discovery by Tantita Security Services highlights the ongoing battle against crude oil theft and the need for stronger enforcement measures. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how far the network of illegal operators extends and who else may be held accountable.
Tantita’s interception of this operation showcases the importance of vigilance and community-driven security solutions in protecting Nigeria’s natural resources. If proven successful, the government's support for Tantita's work could be pivotal in tackling the country's long-standing issues with crude oil theft.