Former Minister of Interior, retired Navy Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho, was on Friday arrested in connection with the recent seizure of suspected stolen petroleum products vessel, M.T. Grace.
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Mr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, who announced his apprehension in Lagos on Saturday, said that the manhunt for the brains behind the pirates was traced to the stolen products purchased by integrated oil and gas tank farm owned by the former minister.
According to Akpobolokemi, who was represented by NIMASA’s Executive Director in charge of Maritime Labour Services, Barr. Obi Nwabueze, the premises of the company had been under lock and keys pending investigation.
“You recall we had cause to parade some pirates here and we did say that we were going to continue to look for those who were behind these pirates because we came to the realization that behind the façade, there are the kingpins and the big men who facilitate piracy, he said.
“So in line with our promise to the Nigerian public, we intensified our search for the big men behind the scene and we are happy to tell you today that we have been able to trace them to a company, a major company , integrated oil and gas.
“The stolen products were conveyed and stored at integrated oil and gas. As we speak, we have sealed off the company and we have arrested the top management of the company,” Mr. Akpobolokemi said.