Navy to launch ‘Operation Octopus Grip’ in Bayelsa and Delta states

The Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Adm. Bello Al-hassan, said the command would soon commence riverine and sea exercises, code-named “Octopusgrip,’’ in Bayelsa and Delta, Imsu Elijah (Elitism6.com) has learned.

Al-hassan said the command in January launched “Operation Rivers Sweep.” “So far, the operation has recorded huge success in reducing crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other maritime crimes. 

“Between May and Sept. this year, the command seized and destroyed about 870,000 MT of illegally refined crude oil. “Also, over 400 illegal refineries were destroyed, including 85 boats used by oil thieves,” he said.

The flag officer said the aim of the planned exercise was also to assess the operational readiness of CNC fleet and to test the practical skills of its personnel in tackling maritime threats.