The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining, disrupting three illegal refining sites and recovering about 103,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Rivers State.
Personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER carried out the operation around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, acting on credible intelligence.
According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation led to the discovery of 12 dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs containing the suspected illegally refined products.
Troops also recovered two pumping machines used in the illicit operation.
The Navy said the latest breakthrough came just seven days after NNS PATHFINDER dismantled two illegal refining sites within the same area on 15 August 2026, bringing the number of illegal refining sites disrupted by the unit to five within one week.
Naval authorities noted that the sustained operations have significantly constrained efforts by operators to reactivate illegal refining infrastructure in the area.
No arrests were made during the raid as the suspects reportedly fled before the arrival of naval personnel.
The recovered products, estimated at 103,000 litres, along with the illegal refining sites and equipment, were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.
The Navy described the operation as a further demonstration of the impact of sustained military pressure on infrastructure supporting illegal refining and crude oil theft, adding that it remains committed to Operation DELTA SENTINEL aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s oil and gas assets, combating economic sabotage and creating a secure environment for legitimate production and investment.
