The Nigerian Navy has uncovered and shut down reactivated illegal refining sites in Rivers State, recovering more than 126,000 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products during ongoing operations against crude oil theft.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder under Operation Delta Sentinel following renewed attempts by criminal groups to rebuild illegal refining facilities previously destroyed in the Egbema area of Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.
The Navy had earlier raided the area on July 10, 2026, dismantling several illegal refining sites. However, intelligence reports later indicated efforts by oil thieves to restore the facilities, prompting further surveillance and follow-up action.
Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said naval operatives discovered two reactivated illegal refining locations and recovered about 76,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 50,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The products were found concealed in seven dugout pits and reservoirs within the illegal facilities.
The Navy said the operation demonstrated its determination to prevent criminal networks from regaining a foothold or rebuilding illegal refining infrastructure in its area of responsibility.
It added that the recovered products and dismantled facilities were handled in line with established procedures for tackling crude oil theft, while intelligence-led operations would continue across identified criminal locations.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, disrupting oil theft networks and supporting efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s economic resources through sustained operations under Operation Delta Sentinel.
