In a continued effort to combat crude oil theft and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA, operating under Operation DELTA SANITY, discovered and dismantled three illegal refinery sites in Obodo Omadino Creek, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday, April 17.
The operation, conducted by naval personnel from NNS DELTA, uncovered three refining ovens actively used for illegal processing of stolen crude oil. Several large sacks filled with crude oil were also seized during the raid. The illegal sites were promptly deactivated to prevent further environmental damage and economic sabotage.
According to a statement from NNS DELTA, the discovery was made during a routine patrol aimed at identifying and neutralizing illegal bunkering activities and refining sites within the region. The Navy noted that the illegal refineries posed a serious threat to the environment, local communities, and national revenue.
Efforts are currently underway to track and apprehend the individuals behind the illegal operations. The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining maritime security and eradicating all forms of criminality in the nation’s waterways.
“The perpetrators of these crimes are currently being tracked and will soon be apprehended,” a naval spokesperson stated. “This operation is part of our broader mandate to protect national assets and uphold the rule of law in the maritime domain.”
Operation DELTA SANITY is one of several strategic initiatives launched by the Nigerian Navy to curb illegal oil refining, pipeline vandalism, and other maritime crimes in the Niger Delta. The Navy has called on residents and stakeholders in the region to support ongoing efforts by providing credible intelligence to security agencies.
Authorities urge all individuals involved in such activities to desist immediately, warning that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
