By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Navy has dismantled three illegal refining sites in Rivers State, recovering approximately 117,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in an operation targeting crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.
The operation was carried out on November 5, 2026, by personnel of the Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY at Awokiri Community in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area.
According to the Navy, the operation followed intelligence reports indicating that new illegal refining facilities had become active in the area.
A statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed that the operation led to the discovery of 16 dugout pits containing suspected stolen petroleum products and other materials.
Nine of the pits reportedly held approximately 115,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, while an additional storage tank contained about 2,000 litres.
The naval team also discovered four pits containing water and three freshly excavated pits, bringing the total number of pits uncovered to 16.
The Navy said the illegal refining facilities, dugout pits and recovered petroleum products were handled in line with existing regulations.
It described the operation as part of its ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering through intelligence-led security operations.
According to the Service, dismantling the facilities would disrupt criminal networks involved in illegal petroleum activities, protect critical oil and gas infrastructure and safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests.
The Navy also reaffirmed its commitment to preventing economic saboteurs from accessing the country’s petroleum resources.
It said it would sustain operations in support of national efforts to improve crude oil production, strengthen security and protect Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The latest operation adds to the Navy’s ongoing efforts to tackle illegal refining and crude oil theft, which continue to threaten the country’s petroleum industry and government revenue.
