Navy arrests 259 oil thieves, destroys 168 illegal refineries

The Nigerian Navy has taken significant steps against oil theft and illegal refining activities in the first year of Chief Admiral Idi Abbas's tenure. Between November 2025 and November 2026, the service arrested 259 suspects, destroyed 168 illegal refineries, and impounded four vessels suspected of involvement in crude oil theft.

Over 7.48 million litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products were recovered, alongside the destruction of 363 dugout pits. The Navy also secured nine convictions for offences related to crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. These actions have helped sustain Nigeria's zero-piracy status and strengthened maritime security.

Additionally, the Navy activated Operation Delta Sentinel in January 2026 to intensify efforts against maritime crimes and commissioned three high-speed patrol vessels in June 2026 to enhance surveillance capabilities.

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.