Navy Uncovers 68,175 Litres of Suspected Stolen Crude Oil in Rivers
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered approximately 68,175 litres of suspected stolen crude oil at illegal storage and refining sites in Ogbogolo Community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The discoveries were made during two separate intelligence-led operations conducted on October 24 and November 7, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
The Navy disclosed this in a statement issued by its Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
According to the statement, the first operation on October 24 led to the discovery of two crude oil storage sites containing four dugout pits, 29 sacks and a 25-litre keg, with an estimated 8,675 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
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During the subsequent operation on November 7, naval personnel uncovered two illegal refining sites comprising two large and 36 smaller dugout pits, alongside other storage facilities containing an estimated 59,500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
The Navy said the discovered petroleum products and associated items were handled in accordance with established procedures.
It explained that the operations followed credible intelligence on illegal petroleum storage and refining activities within the Orashi Forest and adjoining areas.
The Service said the discoveries underscored its sustained efforts under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to dismantle illegal petroleum storage and refining infrastructure, disrupt crude oil theft networks and prevent economic saboteurs from exploiting the nation’s natural resources.
It added that maintaining operational pressure in identified areas of criminal activity remained critical to protecting oil and gas infrastructure and safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to combat crude oil theft, eliminate illegal refining activities and protect the country’s maritime and economic interests.
By PRNigeria
