In a fresh blow to oil theft networks operating in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, naval operatives have uncovered a concealed dugout reservoir containing about 10,000 litres of suspected stolen crude in Oteghele, Delta State.
Personnel attached to NNS DELTA made the discovery on 2 September 2026 during a routine anti-crude oil theft patrol within their area of responsibility, acting on credible intelligence about illegal petroleum activities in the community.
According to a statement on Friday by the Director Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the reservoir and its contents were handled in line with standard procedure, ensuring the suspected stolen product could not be diverted for further illegal use.
The operation is part of the Navy’s ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks and dismantle the makeshift infrastructure sustaining Nigeria’s illegal crude oil trade.
