NIMASA Collects 20 Vessels from Tompolo

The  Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)  has taken back 20 vessels belonging to the agency, in the custody of...

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has taken back 20 vessels belonging to the agency, in the custody of Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo.

Tompolo bought the vessels under a private-public partnership agreement with NIMASA.

Industry watchers say NIMASA’s move is linked with Tompolo indictment in various fraud investigations by theEconomic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Asource who spoke to Daily Trust about the development, said “These ships are mounted with guns and those in charge are being investigated. The management thought it wise to take over the ships so that they will not be used to cause any breach of security in the Niger Delta region.

“The ships were purchased by Global West under a Purchase Operate and Transfer agreement it had with NIMASA. Those who man the vessels are naval personnel who are authorized by the constitution to police the waterways.

“Because there are GPMG rifles mounted on all the vessels, we don’t want a situation where it will be used against the Nigerian state”'

You will recall that Tompolo was declared wanted after refusing to appear in court to face several fraud charges filed against him by the EFCC.