The Nigerian Navy has intensified efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta, recovering approximately 33,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) during a fresh operation in Rivers State.
The latest seizure was carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER during an operation in Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, a region that has repeatedly featured in the country’s battle against economic sabotage and environmental degradation.
According to the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folarunsho, naval operatives discovered two active illegal refining sites hidden within the area. The operation also uncovered eight dugout pits, reservoirs and several sacks believed to have been used for the storage and processing of petroleum products.
Folarunsho explained that the raid formed part of ongoing measures to prevent operators of illegal refineries from returning to locations where previous enforcement actions had disrupted their activities.
The Navy had earlier dismantled two illegal refining sites in the same locality on August 28, but intelligence reports indicated that suspected operators attempted to resume operations shortly afterwards.
Upon sighting the approaching naval team, the suspects reportedly fled the scene, abandoning the products and equipment. No arrests were made during the operation.
Security officials noted that illegal refining remains a major challenge in the Niger Delta, contributing to environmental pollution, loss of government revenue and damage to critical oil infrastructure.
The recovered products and materials have been handled in line with established operational procedures, while surveillance activities in the area have been intensified to deter further illegal activities.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to supporting national efforts aimed at protecting oil assets and safeguarding the country’s economic interests. Authorities also called on residents of oil-producing communities to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying and dismantling illegal refining networks.
Industry experts estimate that billions of naira are lost annually through crude oil theft and illicit refining, making sustained enforcement operations crucial to protecting the nation’s energy sector.
