Operation Delta Sentinel: Nigerian Navy Thwarts Attempt to Resuscitate Illegal Refining Network, Destroys Four Sites

…. Recovers 77,000 Litres Of Stolen Crude In Rivers State

The Nigerian Navy has sustained pressure on crude oil theft networks in the Niger Delta, frustrating another attempt by economic saboteurs to
reactivate previously dismantled illegal refining infrastructure in Rivers State.

According to a statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director Naval Information, the operation was conducted on 31 May 2026 by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL following
intelligence reports indicating renewed activities at illegal refining sites
around the Egboama/Ogbogolo axis of Ahoada West Local Government
Area of Rivers State.

Acting on the intelligence, the anti-crude oil theft team executed a
coordinated operation supported by aerial surveillance and riverine
mobility assets to access the difficult creek terrain. Drone reconnaissance
subsequently revealed multiple illegal refining locations concealed within the area.

Exploitation of the sites led to the discovery of four illegal refining sites comprising refining more ovens, dugout pits, and storage facilities containing
an estimated 77,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil.

Investigations further revealed evidence of ongoing efforts by criminal elements to rebuild refining infrastructure that had previously been
dismantled during earlier enforcement operations.

The operation resulted in the deactivation of four illegal refining sites, including three refining ovens, two dugout pits, and a reservoir used to
support illegal refining activities within the area.

The latest discovery underscores the persistence of crude oil theft syndicates in attempting to regenerate illicit operations despite repeated enforcement actions. It also highlights the effectiveness of sustained surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid-response operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.

All identified sites and products were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures, denying criminal elements access to resources intended to sustain economic sabotage.

The Nigerian Navy remains committed to sustaining aggressive intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling illegal refining infrastructure, protecting critical national assets, and safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests across the Niger Delta.