The Nigerian Navy has recovered about 33,800 litres of petroleum products and dismantled two illegal refining sites in Rivers State as part of sustained operations against crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.
According to Director of Naval Information Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was conducted by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL on Friday, September 25, 2026, following credible intelligence.
The naval team discovered and deactivated two illegal refining sites at Ogbogolo Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to the Navy, the operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 28,520 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and 5,280 litres of stolen crude oil, bringing the total quantity of recovered petroleum products to 33,800 litres.
The operatives also discovered 48 sacks, three dugout pits, two kegs and three cooking drums reportedly used for storing and processing the illegally refined products.
The Navy said the suspected operators fled the area upon sighting the naval personnel.
The latest operation forms part of the sustained offensive under Operation DELTA SENTINEL against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta.
The operation also reflects the Nigerian Navy’s strategy of intelligence-led surveillance and targeted disruption of the infrastructure and networks supporting crude oil theft in the region.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has directed naval formations and units to sustain pressure on criminal networks, deny them freedom of action and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure.
The Navy said it would continue to deploy maritime domain awareness capabilities, credible intelligence and collaboration with relevant security agencies and host communities to consolidate gains recorded in the fight against oil theft.
It added that the efforts remain critical to protecting Nigeria’s energy resources, supporting crude oil production and strengthening national economic security.
