A Federal High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has sentenced nine men to 10 years imprisonment each for crude oil theft.

The convicts were arraigned and prosecuted by the Department of State Services, DSS, Akwa Ibom Command. They were arrested on February 7, 2025, by the Nigerian Navy during an intelligence-led operation.

The men were caught while allegedly stealing crude oil from a wellhead known as ASABO-D in Ibeno Local Government Area.

Those jailed are Michael Mebawondu, Owei Godspower Mitin, Godspromise Amigoe, Opuowei Siarerebo, Gerekumo Panyan, Newyear Orimisan, Victor Ita, Egbayelo Innocent Oluwatomisin and Ayakimeze Alexander Amagbopere.

Delivering judgment, the presiding judge, Justice Joy Ikpeme, ruled that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. She sentenced each of them to 10 years in prison without the option of a fine.

The court said the conviction is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to clamp down on oil theft and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region.

The DSS also disclosed that no fewer than 21 other suspects are currently facing trial in Akwa Ibom State for similar offences.