NAVY UNCOVERS 68,175 LITRES OF SUSPECTED STOLEN CRUDE OIL AT ILLEGAL REFINING SITES IN RIVERS
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By: Muftau Fatimo
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered approximately 68,175 litres of suspected stolen crude oil during separate operations targeting crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in Rivers State.
The discoveries were made in Ogbogolo Community, Ahoada West Local Government Area, during two operations carried out by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
The Navy’s spokesperson, Captain Abiodun Folorusho, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that the operations took place on October 24 and November 7, 2026, following credible intelligence about illegal petroleum storage and refining activities within the Orashi Forest and adjoining areas.
According to him, the October 24 operation led to the discovery of two crude oil storage sites containing four dugout pits, 29 sacks and a 25-litre keg, with an estimated 8,675 litres of suspected crude oil.
He added that a subsequent operation on November 7 uncovered two illegal refining sites comprising two large and 36 small dugout pits, alongside other storage facilities containing approximately 59,500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
Folorusho said the recovered products and associated items were handled in accordance with established procedures.
He noted that the discoveries underscored the Navy’s sustained intelligence-led operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to dismantle illegal petroleum storage and refining facilities, disrupt crude oil theft networks and deny economic saboteurs access to the nation’s natural resources.
The spokesperson added that the operations were part of efforts to maintain pressure on criminal activities in identified areas, protect critical oil and gas infrastructure and safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests.
He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to sustaining the operations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to combat crude oil theft, curb illegal refining and protect the country’s maritime and economic interests.
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