Navy recovers 87,000 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel in Rivers

Nigerian Navy Seizes 87,000 Liters of Illegally Refined Diesel in Rivers State

The Nigerian Navy has announced the seizure of approximately 87,000 liters of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, during an operation aimed at combating crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering in Rivers State.

The operation took place in the Okarki area as part of Operation Delta Sentinel. A concealed fuel storage facility, believed to be used for the illegal stockpiling of petroleum products, was discovered by navy personnel.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Information, confirmed the recovery in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja. Folorunsho stated that the crew of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh conducted the operation based on credible intelligence.

“The hidden facility contained suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) along with equipment used for its illegal storage and handling,” Folorunsho said. “During the operation, about 87,000 liters of the suspected product were recovered and processed in accordance with established operational procedures.”

The navy emphasized that this seizure underscores the ongoing efforts of criminal groups to establish clandestine storage facilities in the Niger Delta region to facilitate the illegal petroleum trade. Folorunsho explained that dismantling such facilities disrupts the networks supporting crude oil theft and economic sabotage.

The successful operation, he noted, illustrates the navy’s commitment to preventing economic sabotage and protecting vital national assets.

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