Navy Raids Illegal Refining Sites in Rivers, Recovers 58,000 Litres of Suspected Stolen Products
The Nigerian Navy has disrupted two illegal refining sites and recovered approximately 58,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Rivers State.
The operation was carried out by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER, operating under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, at Okarki Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area of the state on October 3, 2026.
The naval operation followed credible intelligence on suspected crude oil theft and illegal refining activities within the area of operations.
According to the Navy, the two illegal refining sites contained nine dugout pits, storage containers and sacks filled with products suspected to be stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products.
The operation also disrupted access to facilities allegedly being used by criminal operators to store and process stolen petroleum resources, thereby affecting the supply chain supporting illegal refining activities in the area.
The recovered products and the affected illegal refining sites were handled in accordance with established procedures for combating crude oil theft and illegal refining.
The Navy disclosed that no arrest was made during the operation, as the suspected operators fled the area before the arrival of the naval team.
