The Navy said only the NNPC can approve crude oil lifting.
The Nigerian Navy has launched a website, www.cot.navy.mil.ng, on crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism to monitor exploration and movement of petroleum products in and out of the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Naval Director of Information, Kabiru Aliyu, the website is launched following a directive from President Goodluck Jonathan, who on October 8, 2012 mandated the seal to eradicate crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism from the nation’s marine system.
Details on exploration, nominations, approvals, movement and trans-shipment of petroleum products by relevant authorities are to be
provided on the site; also individuals are encouraged to share information and ideas in various communities and report on any
suspicious activities by hoodlums.
The Navy also expects the website to generate a desired global awareness on the whip of oil theft and vandalism in the country.
Mr. Aliyu also emphasized that the only body authorized to nominate, approve lifting, movement and trans-shipment of petroleum products is the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.
“In the light of this, any vessel not nominated or approved to lift petroleum products by NNPC has contravened established regulations relating to lifting/ transportation of petroleum products and is therefore liable for prosecution as provided by law,” Mr. Aliyu said
He further warned member of the public against getting involved in crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism while admonishing them to report any criminal activities to the right authorities for immediate prosecution.
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