The navy has dismantled eight illegal crude oil refining sites and arrested three suspects in Delta State.
Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu shared this information during a press conference on Friday in Warri.
According to him, the operations were part of a larger effort known as ‘Operation DELTA SANITY II’, which aims to combat economic sabotage.
Okoloagu explained that on June 6, 2025, the navy uncovered three illegal refining sites in the Obodo Omadina Community, seizing approximately 4,660 liters of stolen crude oil and 1,125 liters of improperly refined fuel, which was stored in various containers.
He said that on June 13, two more illegal sites were found in the same area, leading to the recovery of 8,400 liters of stolen crude oil.
On June 19, three additional sites were uncovered, resulting in the collection of about 7,650 liters of stolen crude oil and 2,100 liters of improperly refined fuel.
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Overall, the navy’s operations led to the closure of eight illegal sites and the recovery of nearly 20,710 liters of stolen crude oil and 3,225 liters of refined fuel.
He said the products were discovered in different makeshift storage areas.
“In another operation on June 15, the navy sent a team to investigate an oil platform operated by Chevron Nigeria Limited after receiving credible information.
“Upon arrival, they found a wooden boat siphoning crude oil from the platform, leading to the seizure of the boat and the arrest of three individuals. They also impounded a speedboat equipped with a powerful engine,” the navy said.
Captain Okoloagu emphasized the navy’s commitment to protecting the country’s oil and gas resources and warned those involved in illegal activities to stop or face the legal consequences.