Navy Seizes Boats, Arrests 13 Over Illegal Black Sand Mining in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy has intercepted two wooden boats carrying suspected illegally mined black sand in Bayelsa State, arresting 13 individuals in connection with the operation.

The arrest was carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso as part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal resource exploitation and maritime-related crimes in Nigeria’s coastal areas.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho confirmed the development in a statement, explaining that the operation was based on credible intelligence about the movement of boats allegedly involved in illegal mining activities within coastal communities in Brass Local Government Area.

According to him, naval operatives tracked and intercepted the boats at Lekeson and Liama communities, where they discovered large quantities of suspected illegally mined black sand on board.

“A total of 13 crew members were arrested in connection with the activity,” Folorunsho said, adding that the suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.

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He noted that preliminary findings suggest the materials were being transported without proper authorization, in violation of environmental and mining regulations. The intercepted boats and their contents have since been secured by naval authorities pending further action.

Folorunsho stated that the operation reflects the Nigerian Navy’s continued commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment and preventing the illegal exploitation of natural resources within its waterways.

He added that illegal mining activities, particularly along coastal communities, pose significant environmental risks, including shoreline degradation, pollution, and disruption of local livelihoods.

The Navy has intensified surveillance and patrol operations in recent months, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where illegal resource extraction and maritime crimes have remained persistent challenges.

Authorities say such operations are part of broader efforts to enforce compliance with environmental laws and ensure sustainable use of natural resources.

The suspects are expected to be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution, depending on the outcome of ongoing inquiries.

The Nigerian Navy has reiterated its warning to individuals and groups engaged in illegal mining and other maritime offenses, stressing that operations across coastal waters will continue to be strengthened to deter criminal activity and protect national assets.