The Nigerian Navy has announced the arrest of a militant kingpin who is believed to be the coordinator of recent militant attacks on oil facilities of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation and Chevron in the Niger Delta region.

Militant group, Niger Delta Avengers has claimed responsibility for the series of attacks on oil and pipeline installations in the past few week.

The Navy paraded the suspect at the Naval Base Warri on Tuesday, as well as another militant leader who spearheaded last week’s attack on Shell Petroleum Development Company’s 48-inch crude pipeline in Forcados.

According to the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, Commodore Riami Muhammed, the militants’ coordinator operates about 35 abandoned oil well heads and crude oil pipelines in Okpoko and Obodo creeks in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta state.

“Today, I’m pleased to announce that after several weeks of persistent efforts, the Nigerian navy in collaboration with other security agencies has arrested the main coordinator of the attacks on the NNPC and Chevron oil and gas facilities that we have witnessed since May 4, 2016, with the attack on Chevron Okan Valve platform offshore Escravos.”

“You are aware of the recent series of attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta and in Delta State for which some groups/persons have claimed responsibilities. The Nigerian Navy and other security agencies have been doing their best to curtail these attacks.”

“It’s important to mention that the suspect is also deeply involved in pipeline vandalism and stealing crude oil. He steals crude oil from about 35 abandoned oil well heads. The Nigerian Navy believes with the arrest of this suspect, the attacks on Chevron/NNPC facilities will abate.”

Azubuike Azikwe