Navy Destroys Several Illegal Refineries, Arrests Eight Suspected Crude Oil Thieves In Niger Delta

In a major crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities, the Nigerian Navy, as part of Operation DELTA SANITY, has destroyed several illegal refineries and arrested eight suspects across the Niger Delta between September 2 and 23, 2024. The operation, which spanned multiple states, resulted in the dismantling of 19 illegal refining sites and the seizure of large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products.

The operations spanned across several states, including Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Ondo, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos. The Navy uncovered and dismantled 19 illegal refining sites, seized 25 wooden boats, and confiscated 138 sacks filled with stolen crude oil.

On September 2, 2024, an illegal refining site and two wooden boats were destroyed at Isonogbene in Bayelsa State, along with the seizure of 28 sacks containing suspected illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO). On September 4, Navy personnel seized three wooden boats and a speedboat loaded with stolen crude oil in the Brass River area of Nembe, Bayelsa State.

By September 5, 2024, two illegal refinery sites were dismantled, and several boats and reservoirs filled with crude oil were seized in the Bonny Channel area of Rivers State. Four days later, on September 9, 2024, two illegal refining sites with wooden boats and other equipment were destroyed in Okporoza creek, Delta State.

On September 10, 2024, a newly constructed illegal refinery was destroyed in Ondo State, with a reservoir and a dugout pit filled with crude oil being seized. Two suspected sea robbers were also apprehended on September 12, 2024, in Akwa Ibom State.

The Navy arrested one suspect on September 14, 2024, and dismantled four illegal refining sites, seizing 48 sacks of refined AGO in Bayelsa State. A few days later, on September 22, 2024, five suspects were apprehended near Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State, along with a wooden boat loaded with stolen crude oil.

The following day, on September 23, 2024, a vehicle carrying 50 sacks of refined AGO was intercepted in Rivers State, while another illegal refining site was destroyed in Abua/Odua Local Government Area.

Throughout the operation, the Navy destroyed 19 illegal refinery sites, confiscated 26 reservoirs, 19 ovens, 12 dugout pits, and arrested eight suspects. The Navy’s commitment to combating oil theft remains strong, with continued efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime and economic interests.