The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State, dismantling two illegal refining sites and recovering about 34,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The operation was carried out on August 28, 2026, by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to the Navy, the recovered petroleum products were discovered in dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs at the illegal refining locations. Equipment and other materials believed to have been used for the refining activities were also found and deactivated.
The operation formed part of the Navy’s sustained efforts to prevent the reactivation of illegal refining sites and disrupt crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
The Navy noted that continued operations in the area have helped reduce the re-establishment of illegal refining infrastructure.
Related News:
Nigerian Navy Foils Wellhead Sabotage Attempt, Arrests Suspect in Rivers
Nigerian Navy Intercepts Two Boats Laden with Suspected Stolen Petroleum Products in Rivers
Navy Busts Illegal Crude Oil Storage Site, Recovers 39,500 Litres in Rivers
However, no arrest was made during the operation, as the suspected operators reportedly fled before naval personnel arrived at the sites.
The recovered products and other items were subsequently handled in accordance with established procedures for operations targeting crude oil theft and illegal refining.
The operation was conducted under Operation Delta Sentinel, an intelligence-led initiative focused on disrupting crude oil theft and illegal refining, while protecting critical national assets and legitimate economic activities in riverine communities.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to sustaining operations against activities capable of undermining Nigeria’s oil industry and economic interests.
About the Author
