The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal crude oil refining in Rivers State, dismantling newly reactivated refining sites and recovering more than 126,000 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products during a fresh operation.
The latest operation forms part of Operation DELTA SENTINEL, an ongoing campaign aimed at combating crude oil theft, protecting critical oil infrastructure, and preventing economic sabotage across the Niger Delta.
Navy Foils Attempt to Restart Illegal Refining Operations
According to an operational update issued by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER maintained surveillance over previously dismantled illegal refining locations in the Egbema axis of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Navy had earlier destroyed illegal refining camps in the same area on July 10, 2026. However, security operatives discovered that suspected oil thieves had returned and attempted to restart operations at the abandoned facilities.
Following continued intelligence gathering and routine patrols, naval personnel launched another operation that led to the discovery and destruction of the reactivated refining sites.
Over 126,000 Litres of Suspected Stolen Petroleum Products Recovered
During the latest raid, security operatives uncovered significant quantities of suspected illegally obtained petroleum products hidden in dugout pits and reservoirs.
Recovered items included:
| Recovered Product | Estimated Quantity |
|---|---|
| Suspected stolen crude oil | 76,000 litres |
| Suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) | 50,000 litres |
| Total recovered petroleum products | 126,000 litres |
The Navy disclosed that approximately 50,000 litres of suspected Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) were concealed inside seven dugout pits and storage reservoirs, while another 76,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil were recovered from the illegal refining locations.
Operation DELTA SENTINEL Maintains Pressure on Oil Theft Networks
The Navy said the operation highlights its determination to prevent criminal groups from rebuilding illegal refining infrastructure after previous enforcement actions.
According to the naval command, continuous monitoring of identified hotspots has become necessary as operators of illegal refineries often attempt to return to dismantled sites shortly after security agencies leave the area.
Officials added that all recovered petroleum products and dismantled refining equipment were handled in line with existing anti-crude oil theft procedures.
Nigerian Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Oil Infrastructure
The Navy reiterated that it will continue intelligence-led operations across the Niger Delta to dismantle illegal refining camps, disrupt crude oil theft syndicates, and safeguard Nigeria’s strategic oil assets.
Authorities also stressed that sustained enforcement remains essential to protecting national revenue, improving energy security, and reducing the environmental damage caused by illegal refining activities.
The latest operation underscores the Navy’s ongoing efforts to deny crude oil thieves the opportunity to regain operational bases while strengthening security around key oil-producing communities in Rivers State.
