Nigerian navy deactivates 3 illegal refining networks in Rivers state

The Nigerian Navy Sunday said troops of Operation DELTA SENTINEL in the Niger Delta region of the country sustained its operational momentum against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities through the disruption of reactivated illegal refining infrastructure in Rivers state.

A statement by Director Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorusho, noted that the operation, conducted by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER within the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni axis of Rivers state, led to the discovery and deactivation of three newly established illegal refining sites linked to ongoing crude oil theft activities in the area.

He said during the operation, personnel recovered approximately 43,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil and 18,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) concealed in 12 dugout pits and reservoirs, bringing the total volume of recovered petroleum products to 61,000 litres._

“The latest discovery highlights the continued attempts by criminal elements to reactivate and expand illegal refining operations despite sustained enforcement efforts. It will be recalled that similar illegal refining infrastructure was dismantled within the same general area in July 2026, underscoring the determination of crude oil theft syndicates to re-establish their activities._

“By maintaining sustained operational presence across identified hotspots, the Nigerian Navy continues to deny economic saboteurs the opportunity to rebuild their networks, while protecting critical national assets and supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance oil production and economic security,” he said.

He added that the Nigerian Navy remains resolute in sustaining intelligence-driven operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to dismantle illegal refining infrastructure, disrupt crude oil theft networks, and safeguard Nigeria’s oil and gas resources.