Navy uncovers, deactivates illegal refining sites in Rivers
Nigerian Navy Maintains Operational Control Over Illegal Refining Sites in Rivers State
The Nigerian Navy has reported ongoing success in combating illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State, as part of Operation DELTA SENTINEL. This effort continues to thwart attempts to reactivate dismantled refining infrastructure.
In a statement released Sunday in Abuja, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, detailed recent operations that highlight the navy’s commitment to maintaining operational control in known hotspots. He noted that on July 10, personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER deactivated illegal refining sites within the Egbema axis of the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.
Despite the earlier success, Felorunsho indicated that attempts to reactivate these sites were made by criminal groups, necessitating heightened monitoring and follow-up operations. In a recent operation, the naval personnel rediscovered and deactivated two of these reactivated sites, recovering approximately 76,000 liters of products suspected to be stolen crude oil. Furthermore, they uncovered 50,000 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, concealed in seven dugout pits and reservoirs. This brings the total volume of recovered petroleum products to over 126,000 liters.
Folorunsho emphasized that the operation reflects the navy’s determination to prevent crude oil thieves from regaining operational footholds or rebuilding illegal refining infrastructure within its jurisdiction. He confirmed that all illegal sites and recovered products were managed in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft protocols, while sustained pressure remains on identified criminal enclaves.
The navy reaffirmed its dedication to carrying out intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling illegal refining networks, disrupting crude oil theft, protecting critical national assets, and supporting Nigeria’s economic security.
