Operation Delta Sentinel: Navy Discovers Illegal Refining Sites, Recovers 62,050 Litres of Suspected Stolen Oil in Rivers
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft in the Niger Delta following the discovery of two suspected illegal refining sites containing approximately 62,050 litres of petroleum products in Rivers State.
The discovery was made on September 8, 2026, in Ogbogolo community, Ahoada West Local Government Area, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH operating under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
During the operation, the naval team uncovered 31 dugout pits containing an estimated 58,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 4,050 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel, also known as Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Six sacks and one keg containing additional quantities of suspected illegally refined diesel were also recovered from the sites.
The facilities were discovered within the Orashi Forest and surrounding areas of Ogbogolo. The Navy disclosed that no suspects were arrested because they escaped upon noticing the approaching naval personnel.
The operation forms part of the Nigerian Navy’s sustained efforts to dismantle illegal refining networks and prevent the theft and unauthorised processing of petroleum products.
The Navy said Operation DELTA SENTINEL has recorded multiple operational successes, demonstrating its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s oil resources, safeguarding the nation’s economic interests and curbing illegal petroleum activities across the Niger Delta.
