The Nigerian Navy has intensified its campaign against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, dismantling two illegal refining sites and recovering more than 85,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil products during a fresh operation in Rivers State. The latest operation was carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel, as security forces sustained pressure on criminal networks involved in illegal refining and economic sabotage across the region.
According to the Navy, the operation took place within the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni axis of Rivers State, where personnel uncovered and deactivated two illegal refining camps linked to crude oil theft activities.
The operation also led to the recovery of approximately 85,300 litres of products believed to be stolen crude oil, which had been hidden in dugout pits and makeshift reservoirs. The Navy described the discoveries as another major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal oil operations in the Niger Delta.
Director of Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the latest discoveries came only days after security operatives dismantled similar illegal refining facilities in the same area.
According to him, the repeated discoveries indicate that crude oil thieves continue to attempt to revive dismantled refining operations despite intensified military enforcement. He noted that the Navy’s sustained presence in identified hotspots has significantly limited the ability of criminal elements to establish and maintain illegal refining networks.
The Navy said its ongoing operations are aimed at protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure while safeguarding national economic interests from activities that undermine government revenue. Officials maintained that continued surveillance and targeted operations have proven effective in denying oil thieves operational space across the Niger Delta.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the offensive against crude oil theft and illegal refining through Operation Delta Sentinel. According to the Navy, efforts will continue until criminal networks responsible for economic sabotage are dismantled and Nigeria’s maritime and energy assets are adequately protected.
