The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta, recovering about 105,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil during coordinated operations in Delta State under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
The recoveries were made during a series of anti-crude oil theft operations carried out within the operational area of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA, where personnel uncovered concealed storage facilities allegedly used by economic saboteurs to stockpile stolen crude oil.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Navy recovered approximately 60,000 litres and 45,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil from two separate locations in the Oteghele axis of Delta State.
He said the operation highlighted the continued activities of criminal syndicates involved in crude oil theft, while reaffirming the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to dismantle their networks and deny them access to infrastructure used for illegal operations.
Folorunsho noted that the operations form part of sustained efforts under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to protect critical oil and gas infrastructure, curb economic sabotage, and reduce the nation’s losses arising from crude oil theft.
He added that the latest success demonstrates the effectiveness of the Navy’s ongoing campaign against illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes across the Niger Delta.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and energy assets through sustained operations aimed at enhancing national security, protecting critical infrastructure, and supporting the country’s economic prosperity.
