EFCC Arraigns 14 Foreign Nationals Over Illegal Oil Dealing

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Wednesday docked 14 foreign nationals before a Federal High Court, Lagos, over alleged illegal dealing in petroleum products.

The accused included three Russians -- Arthur Pakhladzhian, Vasaliy Shkundich and Kretov Andrey; one Japanese, Sergio Abgarian; three Ukrainians -- Vitalis Biluos, Laguta Olesksiy and Chepikov Oleksan. Others are seven Britons -- Hilarion Teofilo Regipor, Cadavis Gerardo, Baduria Benjamin, Naranjo Allian Antero, Patro Christian, Alcayde Joel, Carantiquit Micheal Bryan -- and three vessels- MT Anukt Emerald, Monjasa DMCC, and Glencore Energy UK Ltd.
The accused are standing trial on a four-count charge of conspiracy, unlawful dealing and storage of petroleum products without lawful authority.
According to the charge, the accused committed the offences on Feb. 27 within the jurisdiction of the court. It alleged that they stored 1,500 tonnes of automated gas oil inside the MT Anuket Emerald's Cargo tank.
The charge also alleged that they stored 3,035 tonnes of Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO) in other tanks.
The agency said that offences contravened Sections 4, 17, 19 (6) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act and the Petroleum Act, Laws of Federation. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them in the dock.
The case was adjourned till June 17, 18 and 19 for trial.
 (NAN) OCC/GOK/NKO