The Nigerian Navy is cracking down on illegal oil refining in Rivers State, dismantling multiple sites and seizing thousands of liters of stolen crude and refined products. This is a major blow to oil thieves and a win for Nigeria’s economy!
- Navy operatives destroyed five illegal refineries in Rivers State.
- Over 150,000 liters of stolen oil products were recovered.
- The operation targeted illegal bunkering activities in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni area.
Navy Crushes Illegal Refineries in Rivers State – See the Damage!
The Nigerian Navy is not playing games! Operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder have taken decisive action against illegal oil refineries in Rivers State, dismantling five sites used for illegal bunkering activities. This is a big win in the fight against oil theft, which is a major problem in Nigeria.
Massive Haul of Stolen Oil Recovered
Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, revealed that the operation took place in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State. The illegal sites contained a staggering amount of stolen oil:
- 62 ovens used for refining
- 21 reservoirs
- 55 dugout pits
- Approximately 50,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil
- 83,000 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)
- 20,000 liters of illegally refined kerosene
Inside the Operation: How the Navy Shut Down the Thieves
The operation, conducted on June 14, 2025, by NNS PATHFINDER’s Tactical Riverine Assault Squadron Team, was based on solid intel. According to Commodore Aniaku, the team deployed personnel and assets to conduct anti-crude oil theft and illegal bunkering operations within the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni area.
During the operation, the team discovered a newly activated illegal refining site and moved in swiftly to dismantle it and others in the area.
Navy Sends a Strong Message: We’re Coming for You!
While no arrests were made (the perpetrators fled upon seeing the patrol team), Commodore Aniaku made it clear that the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, is fully committed to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering. These activities pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s economy and energy security.
Why This Matters: Protecting Nigeria’s Wealth
Oil theft is a major problem in Nigeria, costing the country billions of dollars every year. These illegal refineries not only steal valuable resources but also cause significant environmental damage. The Navy’s actions are crucial to protecting Nigeria’s economy and ensuring that the country’s oil wealth benefits all Nigerians.
For context, Nigeria’s oil sector is the backbone of its economy, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s revenue. Disruptions caused by oil theft can have far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from government budgets to infrastructure development.
What’s Next?
The Nigerian Navy is expected to continue its operations against illegal oil refining and bunkering in the Niger Delta. These efforts are essential to curb oil theft, protect the environment, and safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests. Expect more raids, more seizures, and more bad news for oil thieves!
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