Navy intensifies crackdown on oil theft, recovers 85,000 litres of crude

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, dismantling two illegal refining sites and recovering more than 85,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil during an operation in Rivers State. The operation was carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel within the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni area, where naval personnel uncovered illegal refining facilities linked to crude oil theft activities. According to the Navy, approximately 85,300 litres of products believed to be stolen crude oil were recovered from concealed dugout pits and storage reservoirs at the sites. The illegal refining infrastructure was subsequently deactivated to prevent further operations. The Navy noted that the latest discovery comes only days after similar illegal refining sites were uncovered in the same area, indicating continued attempts by criminal groups to resume illicit activities despite ongoing security operations.

Officials said the sustained military presence in key oil-producing communities has continued to disrupt illegal refining networks and limit the activities of those involved in crude oil theft. The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria's oil and gas infrastructure, stressing that operations under Operation Delta Sentinel will continue to target illegal refineries, safeguard maritime assets and curb economic sabotage across the Niger Delta. Authorities say the campaign remains a key part of efforts to protect national revenue and strengthen security within the country's oil-producing region.

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