The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to combat illegal oil refining and crude oil theft in Rivers State, successfully deactivating reactivated sites and recovering over 126,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. This latest operation, carried out by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER, took place in the Egbema axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, a known hotspot for illegal refining activities. The navy’s sustained surveillance and swift response have disrupted criminal networks attempting to rebuild dismantled infrastructure, reinforcing its commitment to national economic security.
According to Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the operation followed earlier success on July 10 when NNS PATHFINDER discovered and deactivated illegal refining sites in the same area. Despite this, criminal elements attempted to reactivate the sites, prompting the navy to maintain constant monitoring and launch follow-up operations. During the most recent mission, navy personnel identified and dismantled two reactivated illegal refining sites, seizing approximately 76,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
In addition to crude oil, the navy recovered 50,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), which was concealed in seven dugout pits and reservoirs. The total volume of recovered petroleum products now exceeds 126,000 litres, a significant blow to illegal refining operations in the region. These actions are part of the navy’s broader strategy to deny oil thieves the opportunity to regain operational footholds or reconstruct illegal refining infrastructure within its jurisdiction.
All seized materials and dismantled sites were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft protocols, ensuring proper documentation and legal processing. The navy continues to apply sustained operational pressure across identified criminal enclaves, using intelligence-driven tactics to dismantle networks involved in crude oil theft and illegal refining. This approach not only protects critical national assets but also supports Nigeria’s broader economic stability and energy security.
Capt. Folorunsho emphasized that the Nigerian Navy remains fully committed to disrupting illegal refining activities and safeguarding the nation’s oil resources. The operation underscores the navy’s capability to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging threats in the oil-producing regions. As the fight against oil theft continues, the navy’s proactive stance serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and reinforces public confidence in the nation’s security apparatus. The ongoing operations are expected to contribute significantly to reducing oil theft and boosting Nigeria’s revenue from crude oil exports.
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