In a concerted effort to curb illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER, as part of Operation DELTA SANITY, seized two mini barges loaded with an unspecified quantity of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) at Taraba Jetty in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The operation, conducted on Wednesday, 17th April 2024, underscores the Navy’s ongoing commitment to combatting illicit oil activities that threaten environmental sustainability and economic stability in the region. The impounding of the mini barges marks a significant stride in the fight against illegal refining and smuggling of petroleum products.
Additionally, in a separate operation on the same day, Forward Operating Base BONNY uncovered an illegally connected hose to an abandoned wellhead in Rivers State. This discovery follows a recent incident where the base’s patrol team had previously disconnected a similar hose from the wellhead in the vicinity of Cawthorne Channel.
The repeated attempts to connect hoses to abandoned wellheads underscore the persistence of illegal oil activities in the area. Prompt action was taken to disconnect the hose and reinforce surveillance in the surrounding area to prevent further illegal connections and activities.
Operation DELTA SANITY continues to demonstrate the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to safeguard the nation’s maritime domain and uphold the rule of law. Such operations are crucial in deterring criminal elements engaged in illegal oil activities and promoting a sustainable environment for the benefit of present and future generations.
