….Sustains Pressure on Reactivated Illegal Refining Networks in Niger Delta

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigerian Navy has deactivated two illegal refining sites and recovered about 85,300 litres of suspected stolen crude oil products as part of its ongoing offensive against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.

The operation, carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel, also sustained pressure on reactivated illegal refining networks operating in Rivers State.

Director of Information, Nigerian Navy, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this on Thursday, saying the latest operation targeted illegal refining infrastructure within the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni axis of Rivers State.

According to him, the operation led to the discovery and deactivation of two illegal refining sites linked to ongoing crude oil theft activities in the area.

He said personnel recovered approximately 85,300 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil, concealed in dugout pits and reservoirs.

Folorunsho noted that the development came just days after the discovery and deactivation of similar illegal refining infrastructure within the same area, indicating persistent attempts by economic saboteurs to resume illicit operations despite sustained enforcement efforts.

He said the recurring discoveries underscore the effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy’s sustained operational presence in identified hotspots, which continues to deny criminal elements the opportunity to establish and maintain illegal refining networks.

According to him, by maintaining pressure on the criminal networks, the Navy is making significant contributions to the protection of critical oil and gas infrastructure and the preservation of Nigeria’s economic interests.

Folorunsho reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to dismantling illegal refining networks, combating crude oil theft and safeguarding the country’s maritime and energy assets through sustained operations under Operation Delta Sentinel.