Navy To Launch 'Operation Octopus Grip' In Bayelsa & Delta States

Just as the Nigerian Army prepares to end its ‘Operation Crocodile Smile’ in Bayelsa, the Central Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy yesterday launched operations ‘Octopus Grip’ in Bayelsa and Delta states.

The Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Alhassan, said the operation was launched to consolidate on the gains of Operation Rivers Sweep launched in January this year.


The Navy also said the command seized and destroyed about 870,000 metric tons of illegally refined crude oil, destroyed over 400 illegal refineries, as well as destruction of 85 boats used by suspected oil thieves between May and September this year.

Explaining the operation at a news conference in Yenagoa, he said the sea exercise is expected to last for three days beginning from October 30 to November 1, 2017, and thereafter, the riverine operations would commence and end on January 18, 2018.

He added that the exercise would checkmate other maritime crimes associated with the ember months.Alhassan pointed out that the exercise would also enable the Navy to assess the operational readiness of the command’s fleet and bases and test the practical skills of personnel in tackling maritime threats.

“The Operation Octopus Grip will determine the capability of the operational bases in the conduct of riverine operations.“It will also provide an enabling environment for sustenance of oil and gas production, safety of shipping and other activities at sea,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Oba Community in Idemili South Local Council of Anambra State has asked the Federal Government to pay compensation for the tension and damages caused during the Operation Python Dance.

President General of Akanano Union, Oba, Dozie Nweke, made the call yesterday while briefing newsmen in Oba, saying the people suffered serious threats and tension from the presence and activities of soldiers in the town during the exercise.

“My people were so much harassed and high tension raised in the community because they had not seen the number of solders that came into the community before.

“Negative stories told about the soldiers in other places contributed in raising fear among the people and you cannot blame them. The Federal Government should as a matter of necessity pay compensation to assuage the trauma caused,” he said.