Again, Nigerian Navy Halts Expansion of Illegal Refining Network, Recovers 104,000 Litres of Stolen Crude in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has successfully disrupted an illegal oil refining network in the Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, seizing approximately 104,000 liters of crude oil suspected to be stolen. This operation, conducted under 'Operation Delta Sentinel,' is a significant step in the Navy's ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and protect vital oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.

According to Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the operation was launched following credible intelligence about criminal activities concealed within the Wakama/Bolo and Aworkiri communities. The Navy's swift action prevented the establishment of new illegal refining locations, thereby hindering the expansion of illicit petroleum production by criminal networks.

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Following actionable intelligence, personnel of Forward Operating Base Bonny targeted criminal infrastructure concealed within the Wakama/Bolo and Aworkiri communities. The operation disrupted efforts by economic saboteurs to establish additional refining locations and sustain illegal petroleum activities.

During the raid, naval personnel uncovered nine illegal refining sites, including 23 dugout pits. Eight of these pits contained the recovered crude oil, while five newly excavated pits, prepared for immediate use, were neutralized. The operation also led to the seizure of eight locally fabricated refining pots and three large storage tanks, significantly degrading the criminal network's refining capabilities.

Captain Folorunsho stated that this achievement highlights the Nigerian Navy's unwavering determination to dismantle both existing and emerging illegal refining operations by targeting their supporting infrastructure. Through intelligence-driven operations, the Navy aims to reduce the ability of criminal groups to rebuild their networks and safeguard the nation's economic assets. The Nigerian Navy remains committed to sustained operations under 'Operation Delta Sentinel' to disrupt criminal logistics, protect national assets, and maintain the integrity of Nigeria's oil and gas sector.

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Through intelligence-driven operations, the Service continues to reduce the ability of criminal groups to rebuild their networks while safeguarding the nation’s economic assets.