The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft with the successful deactivation of multiple illegal refinery sites in Rivers State under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
According to a release by the Navy, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder dismantled three illegal refinery sites, five refining ovens, and 25 dugout pits located in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni area of the state. The operation significantly disrupted a major crude oil theft network operating in the region.
During the operation, naval personnel uncovered a wellhead that had been illegally tapped to siphon crude oil into makeshift refining camps. Security forces also recovered large quantities of illegally refined petroleum products, including Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
The Navy stated that all illegal facilities and materials discovered at the sites were dismantled in line with anti-crude oil theft directives. The action is expected to prevent substantial economic losses to the nation and reduce environmental degradation caused by illicit refining activities.
Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Mutalib Raji, commended the patrol team for their professionalism and dedication during the operation. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at combating maritime crimes and safeguarding national assets.
He also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to enhance ongoing efforts against crude oil theft and related illegal activities.
