N/DELTA CLEANUP: Navy Destroys 19 Illegal Refineries, Arrests 8 In Ongoing Operation
The Nigerian Navy has destroyed 19 illegal refineries and arrested eight suspected oil thieves in a 21-day operation in the Niger Delta region.
The operation, conducted under Operation DELTA SANITY to combat crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
Commodore A Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, made this announcement in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.
According to Adams-Aliu, the operation, which took place from September 2-23, 2024, resulted in the seizure of 25 wooden boats, 138 sacks of stolen crude oil, 26 reservoirs, 19 ovens, 12 dugout pits, four drums, and three fibre boats.
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“The Nigerian Navy will continue to sustain the tempo of Anti Crude Oil Operations to deny oil thieves freedom of action, especially in the Niger Delta region, for enhanced crude oil production towards improved economic development of our nation,” Adams-Aliu stated.
The operation targeted illegal refining sites in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, and Ondo States.
“The Navy’s efforts have significantly disrupted the operations of oil thieves, protecting Nigeria’s maritime environment and economy,”Adams-Aliu added.
The arrested suspects and seized items will be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution.
The spokesman assured of Nigeria Navy’s commitment to combating oil theft and maritime crimes, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for legitimate economic activities.
By PRNigeria
