Navy discovers 56,800 litres of stolen crude in Rivers forest

The Nigerian Navy has sustained its offensive against crude oil theft, discovering two illegal refining sites containing approximately 56,800 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Rivers State.

Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho disclosed this in an operational report on Saturday, saying the operation was conducted on Friday around Ogbogolo Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.

According to him, the operation was carried out by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, a unit under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, following credible intelligence about illegal refining activities in the Orashi Forest.

“The two sites comprised one refining oven, 22 dugout pits and four sacks containing the suspected stolen crude oil.

“The first site held approximately 1,800 litres, while the second contained an estimated 55,000 litres.

“The discovered products and associated items were subsequently handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures,” he said.

Folorunsho said the operation demonstrated the Navy’s continued commitment to dismantling illegal refining infrastructure and disrupting networks involved in crude oil theft.

“Through intelligence-driven operations, the service continues to deny economic saboteurs access to the nation’s petroleum resources and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure,” he said.

He reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to maintain pressure on crude oil thieves and illegal refiners to support national crude oil production, safeguard economic security and protect Nigeria’s maritime interests. (NAN)