By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigerian Navy has made a significant breakthrough in its fight against crude oil theft, intercepting approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and arresting eight suspects in Rivers State.
The operation, conducted under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, targeted the Degema, Ogbogoro, and Ogbologo areas following credible intelligence on illegal activities.
Personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER deployed an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team, which intercepted two wooden boats carrying the suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The naval team arrested eight suspects linked to the illegal activity, while some armed accomplices fled upon sighting the patrol team.
The arrested suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to authorities for investigation and prosecution. Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, stated that the operation aligns with the Chief of Naval Staff’s directive to intensify efforts against crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
The Navy has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting critical national assets. This operation is part of the Navy’s ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta region.
The Nigerian Navy’s Operation DELTA SENTINEL has destroyed over 800 illegal refineries and recovered approximately 171,000 barrels of stolen crude oil in the past two years.
Crude oil theft has significant economic implications for Nigeria, with estimated losses of 37.6 million barrels in 2021, 20.9 million barrels in 2022, and 4.3 million barrels in 2023.
The Navy urged the public to support its efforts by providing credible intelligence on illegal oil activities and will collaborate with security agencies to combat crude oil theft.
The suspects will face prosecution under Nigeria’s laws on economic sabotage and environmental crimes, and if convicted, they could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
