Navy Intercepts Illegal Refining Operation, Recovers 52,600 Litres of Suspected Stolen Crude Oil in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another major success in its fight against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities with the recovery of approximately 52,600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Rivers State.

The recovery was made by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER under the ongoing Operation DELTA SENTINEL, following an intelligence-driven patrol aimed at disrupting activities of oil thieves and economic saboteurs in the Niger Delta region.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the naval team acted on credible intelligence and intercepted two wooden boats suspected to be involved in the illegal movement of petroleum products at Ogoloma in Okrika Local Government Area of the state.

A search conducted on the boats led to the discovery of about 250 sacks containing products suspected to be stolen crude oil, estimated at 52,600 litres. The patrol team also recovered materials believed to be intended for the construction of illegal refining sites.

The Nigerian Navy said the operation disrupted efforts by criminal elements to sustain the illegal refining chain, thereby denying them access to crude oil and equipment needed for their illicit activities.

It added that the recovered products and materials were handled in line with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.

The Navy described the operation as another demonstration of its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure, curbing maritime economic sabotage, and strengthening national economic security.

The service further reaffirmed its resolve to sustain intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling crude oil theft networks and preventing illegal activities across Nigeria’s maritime environment.