Nigerian Navy Disrupts Reactivated Illegal Refining Network in Rivers


By Aviashima Toom, Abuja

The Nigerian Navy has disrupted three illegal refining sites in Rivers State as part of intensified operations against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta.

The sites were uncovered on Friday, August 21, by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH during an operation conducted under Operation DELTA SENTINEL in the Okolomade and Ogbogolo areas of the state.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation followed credible intelligence indicating the reactivation of illegal refining activities in the area.

The Navy said its personnel discovered two cooking drums, two large ovens, 10 reservoirs and four storage facilities linked to the illegal refining operations.

Two makeshift camps, believed to have provided shelter for operators of the illegal refineries, were also discovered.

The operation further led to the recovery of approximately 91,000 litres of product suspected to be stolen crude oil and about 70 litres of product suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

The Navy said the illegal refining sites, recovered products and associated materials were handled in line with established procedures, effectively disrupting the facilities and preventing their immediate reactivation.

The latest operation, according to the Navy, is part of sustained efforts to prevent criminal elements from rebuilding illegal refining infrastructure in areas previously affected by crude oil theft and illegal refining.

The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to Operation DELTA SENTINEL, saying the operation is aimed at degrading the infrastructure supporting crude oil theft, protecting critical national assets and safeguarding Nigeria’s oil and gas resources from economic saboteurs.

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