The Nigerian Navy has recovered about 85,300 litres of suspected stolen crude in Rivers State. They did this after dismantling two illegal refining sites.
According to Vanguard, the operation took place in the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni axis under Operation Delta Sentinel. This operation is the Navy’s continuing campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.
Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.
He said naval personnel discovered the suspected stolen crude oil inside dugout pits. The oil was also found in reservoirs linked to the illegal refining sites.
“During the operation, personnel recovered approximately 85,300 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil concealed in dugout pits and reservoirs,” Folorunsho said.
Navy targets reactivated refining network
The Navy said the latest operation followed the discovery and deactivation of similar facilities within the same area.
According to Folorunsho, criminal groups had attempted to reactivate the illegal refining network despite previous enforcement operations.
He said the recurring discoveries showed that oil theft syndicates remained determined to rebuild their operations in identified hotspots.
However, the Navy maintained that its continued presence in the area was restricting the ability of the groups to establish and operate illegal refining facilities.
“The recurring discoveries underscore the effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy’s sustained operational presence in identified hotspots,” Folorunsho said.
He added that the pressure had continued to deny criminal elements the freedom to maintain illegal refining networks.
Operation Delta Sentinel continues
Folorunsho said Operation Delta Sentinel would continue targeting crude oil theft and illegal refining. Additionally, the operation focuses on related economic crimes across the Niger Delta.
He noted that dismantling such facilities would help protect Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure and preserve national revenue.
The Navy also said the operations supported broader efforts to safeguard the country’s maritime and energy assets.
“The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its commitment to dismantling illegal refining networks, combating crude oil theft and safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime and energy assets,” the statement added.
