The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State, disrupted two illegal refining sites and recovered approximately 33,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The operation, conducted by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER on September 6, 2026, took place in Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the naval team discovered eight dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs believed to have been used for illegal refining activities.
The recovered products and the affected sites were subsequently handled in accordance with established procedures.
The Navy said the latest operation was part of sustained efforts to dismantle illegal refining networks and prevent operators from re-establishing their activities in the area.
It noted that the latest intervention followed an earlier operation on August 28, during which two illegal refining sites were also disrupted.
The Navy maintained that continued pressure on the illegal refining operators was limiting their ability to revive and sustain illicit refining activities.
No arrest was made during the latest operation, as the suspected operators reportedly fled before the arrival of the naval team.
The Navy said it would continue to sustain operations against illegal refining and other activities undermining Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
