The Nigerian Navy has intensified its campaign against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, dismantling two illegal refining sites and disrupting efforts by criminal groups to revive illicit refining activities in Rivers State.
The latest operation, carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel, resulted in the recovery of more than 85,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil products. The successful raid forms part of the Navy’s continued efforts to curb economic sabotage and protect the country’s vital oil infrastructure.
Confirming the development on Thursday, the Director of Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said personnel carried out the operation within the Ogba Egbema Ndoni axis of Rivers State, where they uncovered and shut down two illegal refining camps linked to ongoing crude oil theft.
According to him, security operatives recovered about 85,300 litres of products believed to be stolen crude oil. The products were hidden in dugout pits and makeshift reservoirs used by the operators of the illegal facilities.
Folorunsho explained that the discovery came only days after similar illegal refining sites were uncovered and destroyed in the same area. He noted that the repeated attempts by criminal elements to resume operations demonstrate their determination, even as security agencies continue to sustain pressure on their activities.
He said the recurring discoveries also reflect the effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy’s continuous presence across identified hotspots, making it increasingly difficult for oil thieves to rebuild and operate illegal refining networks.
The Navy believes its sustained operations are playing a major role in protecting critical oil and gas facilities while safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests from the damaging effects of crude oil theft and illegal refining.
Folorunsho reaffirmed that the Service remains fully committed to dismantling illegal refining operations, combating crude oil theft and securing the nation’s maritime environment and energy assets through ongoing operations under Operation Delta Sentinel.
