Navy Uncovers 98,000 Litres Of Stolen Crude, Illegally Refined Diesel In Rivers
By Sunday Etuka
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered three suspected illegal refining sites containing about 98,000 litres of petroleum products in Okarki community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The discovery was made on October 10, 2026, during Operation Delta Sentinel by Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER.
According to Director Naval Information, Captain AA Folorunsho, operation led to recovery of about 65,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 33,000 litres of product suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil stored in about 12 dugout pits and containers.
No arrest was made as suspected operators fled before naval team arrived. Sites and associated products were handled in accordance with established procedures.
The Navy said discovery highlights scale of illicit petroleum storage in area and risk of products entering unlawful distribution channels, adding that disrupting storage at three locations denied suspected operators access to substantial volume for further illegal handling and sale.
It said Nigerian Navy will sustain intelligence led patrols and operations to identify illegal refining facilities, disrupt storage and movement of suspected stolen petroleum products and support efforts to bring those responsible to justice in accordance with law.
