The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta, recording what it described as “major operational successes” through coordinated actions by Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER and NNS SOROH.
According to a statement signed by Abiodun Folorunsho, Navy Captain and Director of Naval Information, the operations were carried out following credible intelligence and targeted anti-crude oil theft missions across Rivers and Bayelsa States.
On 1 May 2026, personnel of NNS PATHFINDER deployed an Anti-Crude Oil Theft (Anti-COT) patrol team comprising two gunboats and 20 personnel to Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State. During the operation, the team uncovered and dismantled illegal refining sites in Egboama-Ogbogolo community.
The Navy disclosed that, “the team uncovered and dismantled five illegal refining sites around Egboama-Ogbogolo community.” It added that the sites contained “approximately 15 dug-out pits, storage facilities, and reservoirs laden with an estimated 85,000 litres of substance suspected to be crude oil, as well as 78,000 litres of product suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).”
Further findings revealed that the illegally refined products were being sourced from a nearby wellhead, though the operating company could not be immediately identified. The Navy stated that the “illegal refining infrastructure and products were subsequently neutralised in line with established Anti-COT procedures,” while suspects fled on sighting naval personnel.
Navy Foils Pipeline Sabotage Attempt in Bayelsa Operation
In a separate operation, personnel of NNS SOROH responded to intelligence on suspected oil thieves moving toward the Soku Gas Plant pipeline corridor in Bayelsa State at about 1900 hours.
Upon arrival, troops conducted a search which led to the discovery of equipment used for illegal pipeline connections concealed in nearby bushes. Recovered items included “10 jerrycans, a 3-inch red hose measuring approximately 300 metres, a 4-inch brown hose measuring about 200 metres, and a blue pipe of about 20 metres in length.” No arrests were made as suspects reportedly fled before the arrival of naval operatives.
The Nigerian Navy noted that all recovered items were handled according to established operational procedures, adding that efforts are ongoing to track fleeing suspects and dismantle associated criminal networks.
Reaffirming its position, the Navy stated that the operations “underscore the Nigerian Navy’s sustained dominance and resolve in denying economic saboteurs freedom of action within the maritime and littoral environment.” It also reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s maritime domain remains secure for legitimate economic activities.
The statement further added that the Nigerian Navy remains “unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s critical national assets,” while encouraging members of the public to continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing operations.
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