A major anti-oil theft operation has dealt another blow to illegal refining networks in the Niger Delta.
The Nigerian Navy has intercepted about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and arrested eight suspects during an operation in Rivers State.
According to Navy spokesperson, Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out under Operation DELTA SENTINEL by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS PATHFINDER, across the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo axis.
Acting on credible intelligence, the patrol team intercepted two wooden boats loaded with suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). While eight suspects were arrested, some accomplices reportedly fled upon sighting the naval team.
The suspects and seized products are now in custody and will be handed over for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Folorunsho said the success aligns with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, to intensify the fight against crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
He added that the Navy will continue ramping up intelligence-driven operations, patrols, and inter-agency collaboration to protect Nigeria’s maritime space and critical assets.
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