The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major operational breakthrough under Operation Delta Sentinel, intercepting a large consignment of illegally refined petroleum products and arresting eight suspected oil thieves in Rivers State.
In a statement Director of Naval Information Captain A.A. Folorunsho said the operation, carried out in the Degema, Ogbogoro, and Ogbologo areas, followed credible intelligence on ongoing illicit activities. Personnel of NNS Pathfinder deployed an anti-crude oil theft patrol team, leading to the interception of two wooden boats conveying approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
According to naval authorities, eight suspects were apprehended in connection with the illegal operation, while other armed accomplices reportedly fled upon sighting the patrol team.
The suspects and seized products are currently in custody and will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Navy stated that the success aligns with the directive of Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who has tasked operational commanders with intensifying the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other maritime crimes.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Service emphasized that Operation Delta Sentinel will continue to leverage intelligence-driven strategies, enhanced patrols, and inter-agency collaboration to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain and critical economic assets.
