Navy Cracks Down on Illegal Refineries, Shuts Down Eight Sites in Delta

The Nigerian Navy has taken strong action against illegal oil refining in Delta State. In recent operations, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos destroyed eight illegal refining sites in the Obodo Omadino community of Warri South Local Government Area.

These operations were part of “Operation Delta Sanity II” and were based on reliable information. Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, who leads FOB Escravos, explained that the goal is to stop illegal activities in Nigeria’s waters, following the orders of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

On May 14, the Navy found and dismantled two illegal refining sites containing about 5,625 litres of stolen crude oil stored in one oven and 17 dugout pits.

On May 19, they discovered and shut down three more sites in the same area, recovering approximately 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined diesel, stored in one oven, five dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.

Continuing their efforts, on May 26, the Navy uncovered and dismantled three additional illegal refining sites at Oteghele, also in Obodo Omadino. These sites held an estimated 7,915 litres of stolen crude oil hidden in 21 dugout pits.

In total, the Navy’s actions led to the destruction of eight illegal refining sites and the seizure of about 16,040 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined diesel. The materials were found in two ovens, 43 dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.

Captain Okoloagu emphasized the Navy’s commitment to stopping illegal oil activities and warned those involved to stop or face legal consequences.