Navy uncovers 117,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has discovered approximately 117,000 litres of potentially stolen crude oil during a recent operation. This discovery came as part of efforts to dismantle illegal refining sites in Rivers State. The operation, carried out on November 5, 2026, by the Forward Operating Base, FOB, Bonny, targeted three such sites in the Awokiri Community of Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area.

Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Director of Information, disclosed these details in a statement on Saturday. According to the statement, the team unearthed 16 pits, nine of which contained about 115,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil. An additional tank held 2,000 litres, raising the total volume to roughly 117,000 litres. Four of the pits were found to contain water, while three were recently excavated.

Folorunsho emphasized that the identified sites, pits, and petroleum products were managed in accordance with established regulations. He stated that the operation was a proactive measure by the Navy to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering through intelligence-driven operations. Dismantling illegal refining facilities, he explained, would disrupt activities related to crude oil theft and contribute to the protection of Nigeria's vital oil and gas infrastructure.