The Nigerian Navy has recorded a significant operational success under Operation Delta Sentinel, dismantling a large-scale illegal oil refining and storage network spread across Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta states.
The intercepted products and equipment are estimated to be worth more than N600 million.
Details of the operation were made public on weekend by Navy spokesperson, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, who disclosed that the coordinated raids targeted identified hotspots associated with crude oil theft and illicit refining.
According to him, in Rivers state, operatives attached to Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH carried out a precision mission in the Egboama/Ogbogolo axis of Ahoada West Local Government Area, near the Rivers–Bayelsa boundary.
“Acting on actionable intelligence, the team navigated difficult terrain using a combined land and water approach, leading to the discovery of several illegal refining camps.
“The sites were equipped with makeshift facilities including ovens, reservoirs, storage tanks, and dugout pits,” he said.
He added that preliminary findings from the operation indicated the recovery of approximately 103,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and about 190,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (diesel).
He said, “The crude oil was estimated at over N91 million, while the refined products were valued at more than N342 million, bringing the total haul in that location to over N433 million.”
According to him, in a separate but related operation in Delta State, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta uncovered a hidden crude oil storage site at Bennett Island.
“The facility, linked to a concealed pipeline via an improvised hose connection, held roughly 78,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, valued at about N69 million.
“Equipment used for siphoning operations was also recovered,” he revealed.
Naval authorities confirmed that all illegal refining sites and storage infrastructure were dismantled in accordance with established procedures, while the recovered petroleum products were handled appropriately.
” Individuals suspected to be involved in the activities reportedly fled upon sighting the naval teams, ” he said.
The Navy emphasized that these operations demonstrate its sustained crackdown on oil theft and its commitment to disrupting criminal networks undermining Nigeria’s energy sector.
“The ongoing Operation Delta Sentinel, recently extended by 90 days, continues to play a key role in safeguarding national resources,” he said.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, praised the units involved for their professionalism and urged continued momentum in the fight against oil-related crimes.
He also tasked the Commander of the Task Group, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, to intensify efforts in rooting out economic saboteurs.
Reaffirming its stance, the Nigerian Navy stated it remains resolute in protecting critical oil infrastructure, securing maritime domains, and defending the country’s economic interests.