Navy busts illegal fuel depot, seizes 87,000 litres in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts against crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta, resulting in the discovery of a hidden fuel storage facility and the seizure of approximately 87,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Rivers State. This operation, part of Operation Delta Sentinel, is aimed at dismantling illegal refining sites, disrupting crude oil theft networks, and safeguarding national oil infrastructure.

Acting on reliable intelligence, naval personnel from the ship SOROH uncovered the illegal storage facility and its contents in the Okarki axis of Rivers State. The recovered products and equipment associated with the unlawful storage and handling of petroleum products are now under the Navy's custody. This operation not only highlights the Navy's commitment to combating economic sabotage but also underscores the persistent challenges posed by criminal networks operating in the Niger Delta, who continue to establish concealed storage and distribution points to sustain the illicit petroleum products trade.