The Nigerian Navy has recorded a major breakthrough in its crackdown on crude oil theft, intercepting 44,000 litres of illegally refined fuel and arresting eight suspects in Rivers State.
The development was disclosed on Sunday by the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, who said the operation was carried out by operatives under Operation Delta Sentinel over the weekend. The mission targeted illegal activities in the Degema, Ogbogoro, and Ogbologo areas of the state.
According to Folorunsho, the success followed actionable intelligence on illicit oil operations in the region. Personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder subsequently deployed an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team to the affected locations.
“Acting on credible intelligence about illicit activities in the area, personnel of NNS Pathfinder deployed an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team,” he said. “This led to the interception of two wooden boats carrying approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).”
The operation also led to the arrest of eight individuals linked to the illegal trade, while several armed accomplices reportedly fled upon sighting the naval patrol team.
Folorunsho confirmed that the arrested suspects, along with the seized fuel, are currently in custody and will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Navy noted that the operation aligns with directives from the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, to intensify the fight against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other maritime crimes across the country.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Navy stated that it will sustain the momentum of Operation Delta Sentinel through intelligence-driven operations, increased patrols, and collaboration with other security agencies to protect Nigeria’s critical assets and economic interests.
