Nigerian Navy destroys three illegal refining sites, recover 85,000 litres diesel in Rivers
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal refining under its Operation Delta Sentinel initiative. In a recent operation, the Navy disrupted three illegal refining sites in Rivers State and recovered approximately 85,000 liters of products suspected to be illegally refined automotive gas oil.
Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, reported that personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder conducted the operation in the Egbema area of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area. The operation was initiated following credible intelligence regarding illicit activities in the region.
During the operation, the Navy identified three refining sites that included eight dugout pits, sacks, and reservoirs containing roughly 85,000 liters of suspected illegal AGO. The sites and recovered products were managed following established anti-crude oil theft protocols.
This operation comes just two weeks after the NNS Pathfinder disrupted two illegal refining sites in the same vicinity. The Navy emphasized that these ongoing efforts reflect its commitment to prevent criminal elements from re-establishing operational bases and reconstructing illegal refining infrastructure.
The Navy’s sustained operational pressure has reportedly led to a reduction in the reactivation of illegal refining sites in the region, suggesting an increasing effectiveness in curbing crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its dedication to Operation Delta Sentinel to safeguard critical national assets, disrupt illegal petroleum supply chains, and support the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance Nigeria’s oil and gas sector while protecting national economic interests.
