The Nigerian Navy has sustained efforts to disrupt illegal refining activities in Rivers with personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER identifying and deactivating two illegal refining sites.
This is contained in an operational report by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, on Sunday in Abuja.
According to Folorunsho, the operation was conducted around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area on Friday.
“The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 34,000 liters of products suspected to be illegally refined automotive gas oil (AGO) contained in dugout pits, sacks, and reservoirs, alongside other items associated with the illegal refining activities.
“The latest operation forms part of sustained efforts by NNS PATHFINDER to prevent the re-establishment of illegal refining infrastructure in the area,” he said.
He also revealed that the continued interventions had contributed to a decline in the reactivation of such sites within the general area.
He said the identified sites, recovered products, and associated items were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.
“No arrest was made as the suspected operators fled before the arrival of the naval team,” he added.
Folorunsho reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to disrupt crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.
“The service remains committed to protecting critical national assets and safeguarding legitimate economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime and riverine environment,” he said.
