Nigerian Navy personnel, attached to Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos, have deactivated two illegal refining sites in Oteghele Community, Obodo Omadinho, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The operation, carried out on 7 March 2025, was part of efforts to combat crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage.

The sites contained approximately 5,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 2,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

These were stored in one refining oven, nine dugout pits, and 28 polythene sacks.

Speaking on the operation, a Navy spokesperson said: ?The Nigerian Navy remains committed to rooting out all forms of illegalities within the maritime environment.

?This successful operation demonstrates our resolve to protect Nigeria?s oil resources.?

The operation, executed under Operation Delta Sanity II, was based on credible intelligence.

It aligns with the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, who has stressed the importance of securing Nigeria?s waterways.

?This operation is a clear message to those engaging in crude oil theft and illegal refining.

?We will continue to dismantle these criminal networks and safeguard our economy,? the spokesperson added.

This latest crackdown underscores the Nigerian Navy?s determination to maintain stability in the region and strengthen national security. (Nigerian Tribune)