Nigerian Navy dismantles reconstructed illegal refinery
Nigerian Navy Dismantles Illegal Refining Operation in Rivers State
The Nigerian Navy has successfully dismantled an illegal oil refining operation located along the Rivers-Bayelsa border, recovering approximately 8,500 liters of suspected petroleum products.
Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, announced the operation in a statement released Sunday in Abuja. The mission was conducted by personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH as part of Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
The operation followed credible intelligence regarding illegal refining activities in the Egboama/Ogbogolo community within the Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State. Folorunsho outlined that the mission involved deliberate land and water approaches, supported by aerial surveillance to pinpoint hidden refining sites within the creeks.
During the operation, Navy personnel uncovered approximately 5,500 liters of suspected crude oil and 3,000 liters of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Additionally, generators, welding machines, and other tools utilized in the expansion of these illegal facilities were confiscated.
Folorunsho noted that the findings indicated a concerted effort by criminal networks to re-establish refining infrastructure previously dismantled by security forces. Following operational protocols, all identified sites and equipment have been deactivated, with ongoing surveillance in the adjacent creek corridors.
The Nigerian Navy remains focused on preventing the re-emergence of illegal refining camps and dismantling the support structures that enable crude oil theft in the region. Folorunsho reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations aimed at safeguarding critical national assets, securing the maritime domain, and curtailing the activities of economic saboteurs in the Niger Delta.
