Nigerian Navy has declared one Charles Ekpemefumor wanted over the hijack of MT MAXIMUS Ship.
In a release signed by Nigerian Navy Director of Information Commodore Christian Ezekobe, it was revealed that one Charles Ekpemefumor aka Charles Parker or Captain Charles Agaba is the mastermind of the hijack attack on the MT MAXIMUS.
He was alleged to be responsible for the leasing of mother ship MT DEJIKUN used for the hijack from one Mustapha Kenny Gani through a third party called Steve Paul.
He said, “In view of his involvement in the pirate attack and hijacking of MT MAXIMUS, a letter of invitation was sent to him on 15 April 2016 to enable him come for questioning on the allegation. Several attempts have been made to ensure his compliance but all efforts proved abortive.”
Continuing, Ezekobe said, “You would recalled that MT MAXIMUS with 18 crew members and carrying 4,368.203MT of Gas Oil was hijacked on 11 February 2016 by a group of suspected pirates off Cote d’Ivoire waters. Consequently, the Nigerian Navy deployed for rescue operations.
“The vessel was eventually rescued on 19 February 2016 within Sao Tome waters 320 nautical miles (nm) off the Nigerian coast. During the rescue operation, 6 pirates were arrested, while one of them was killed. Some items were recovered from the pirates including weapons and mobile telephones. Mr Charles Ekpemefumor Alias Charles Parker is hereby declared wanted by the Naval Headquarters in other to unravel the circumstances of the hijack of MT MAXIMUS. Therefore, any person who sights him should report immediately to any naval formation, military or security agencies for prompt action.”
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