In a significant move against crude oil theft, the Nigerian Navy has successfully recovered 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Ondo State. This operation, conducted under Delta Sanity II, is part of the Navy’s intensified efforts to combat oil-related crimes and protect Nigeria’s maritime and economic interests.
The seizure reinforces the Navy’s commitment to tackling illegal oil activities, which pose a major threat to the country’s revenue and security.
Series of Operations Across Multiple States
The Navy’s recent operations have led to several breakthroughs in the fight against oil theft and maritime crime:
- January 6: Two boats transporting 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil were intercepted in Rivers State.
- January 7: Nine illegal refinery sites were dismantled in Ondo State, leading to the recovery of 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
- January 10: A wooden boat carrying six drums of illegally refined fuel was seized in Akwa Ibom, resulting in the arrest of five suspects.
- January 11: A militant hideout in Bayelsa was raided, leading to the capture of two kidnappers and the confiscation of weapons, including rifles and ammunition.
- January 12: A damaged flow line connected to an underground pit filled with 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil was uncovered in Rivers State.
- January 15-17: Three illegal refinery sites were destroyed in Bayelsa, with 20 drums of illegally refined diesel (AGO) and 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil recovered.
The most recent major operation took place on January 19, when a 30-meter boat carrying 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil was seized in Ondo State. Another significant crackdown on January 27 in Rivers State led to the recovery of 31,000 litres of crude oil, along with wellheads, ovens, and storage reservoirs used for illegal refining.
Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Eradicating Oil Theft
The Chief of Naval Staff, Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has reiterated the Navy’s determination to eliminate crude oil theft and other maritime crimes. He emphasized that Delta Sanity II and other security measures will continue to safeguard Nigeria’s oil assets and ensure economic stability.
The Navy has also urged the public to report suspicious activities, as community involvement is crucial in combating oil theft and illegal refining operations.
With ongoing surveillance and strategic crackdowns, the Nigerian Navy remains firm in its mission to secure the country’s resources and curb the economic losses caused by crude oil theft.
