Navy Arrests 12, Shuts Four Illegal Refineries in Niger Delta Crackdown
The Nigerian Navy’s Operation DELTA SANITY has made significant strides in combating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
In a series of coordinated operations conducted from April 20 to 22, 2025, naval units in Bayelsa, Delta, and Imo states arrested 12 suspects and deactivated four illegal refinery sites.
According to Commodore A. Adams-Aliuu, Director of Information, in a statement issued today, “These operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to rid the maritime domain of crude oil thieves and other nefarious elements, as directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.”
The operations also led to the seizure of two vehicles laden with illegally refined products and the deactivation of nine dugout pits containing large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products.
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He said: “On Monday, April 21, 2025, Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH intercepted and impounded two vehicles loaded with several sacks of illegally refined products in Olodo Community, Bayelsa State.
“On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Naval Outpost ONITSHA apprehended two suspects with a locally made rifle and ten machetes. The suspects were in the process of attacking a SEEPCO oil facility in Oguikpele Community, Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State. Investigation revealed that these suspects were allegedly involved in the attack and killing of three soldiers on June 11, 2024.
“Also on April 22, 2025, Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA discovered and deactivated two illegal refinery sites with nine dugout pits, several sacks, and drums laden with large quantities of illegally refined AGO and stolen crude oil in Bernnet Island and Obodo Omadino Community, Warri South-West LGA, Delta State.”
He added that the Navy also foiled the attempted attack on the SEEPCO facility, further underscoring its commitment to securing the nation’s oil infrastructure.
The Nigerian Navy has urged the public to report any suspicious activities to aid its continued fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
By PRNigeria
