By Ameh Gabriel
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta, arresting 12 suspects and dismantling four illegal refineries during a series of coordinated operations under Operation DELTA SANITY.
The operations, which spanned Bayelsa, Delta, and Imo states between April 20 and 22, 2025, resulted in the seizure of two vehicles carrying illegally refined petroleum products and the deactivation of nine dugout pits used for storing stolen crude oil and illegally refined products.
Director of Naval Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliuu, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday that the operations demonstrate the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to eradicating oil theft and protecting the nation’s economic assets, in line with directives from the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
“These operations underscore the Navy’s resolve to rid the maritime environment of criminal elements and ensure the security of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure,” Adams-Aliuu said.
According to the statement:
- On April 21, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH intercepted and impounded two vehicles loaded with sacks of illegally refined petroleum products in Olodo Community, Bayelsa State.
- On April 22, troops from Naval Outpost ONITSHA apprehended two armed suspects in Oguikpele Community, Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State. The suspects, found with a locally made rifle and ten machetes, were reportedly preparing to attack a Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) facility and are linked to the killing of three soldiers in June 2024.
- Also on April 22, operatives from NNS DELTA uncovered and deactivated two illegal refining sites at Bernnet Island and Obodo Omadino Community in Warri South-West LGA, Delta State. The sites contained nine large dugout pits, sacks, and drums filled with illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and stolen crude oil.
The Navy said it also successfully thwarted the planned attack on the SEEPCO facility in Anambra State, reiterating its dedication to safeguarding national assets and maritime security.
The Nigerian Navy has called on citizens to support the ongoing efforts by reporting any suspicious activities in their communities, stressing the importance of public cooperation in the fight against economic sabotage and environmental degradation.
