The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta, recently dismantling nine illegal refineries in Rivers State.

The operation, carried out by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER, targeted refining sites in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government area, destroying 45 ovens, 30 reservoirs, and 75 dugout pits.

According to Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, Commander of NNS PATHFINDER, the operation on May 12, 2025, recovered approximately 60,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, 80,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 33,000 litres of kerosene.

“The team dismantled two wellheads connected with pipes used by oil thieves to siphon crude oil,” he revealed.Commodore Aniaku praised his personnel for their bravery, stating, “The Nigerian Navy remains committed to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, which pose serious threats to our nation’s economy and energy security.”

No arrests were made as the suspects fled upon sighting the naval patrol, but the seized products were handled according to anti-crude oil theft protocols.

The Navy’s ongoing efforts underline the determination of Vice Admiral E. I. Ogalla’s leadership to safeguard Nigeria’s oil resources and ensure a more secure energy future.