The Nigerian Navy has intensified its fight against oil theft through Operation DELTA SANITY II. In a series of operations across different states, officers have arrested several oil thieves, seized thousands of litres of stolen crude oil, and dismantled illegal refining sites.
On January 6, 2025, the Navy intercepted two boats carrying 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Krakrama, Rivers State. The next day, officers uncovered nine illegal refinery sites in Obe-Nla, Ondo State, recovering 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,400 litres of illegally refined diesel.
On January 10, 2025, a wooden boat loaded with six large drums of refined fuel was seized in Mbo, Akwa Ibom State. The Navy arrested five suspects involved in the operation.
The following day, officers raided a militant camp in Opu-Okumbiri, Bayelsa State, arresting two suspected kidnappers. Weapons, ammunition, and cash were recovered, including:
- One AK-56 rifle
- Five pump-action guns
- Three locally made guns
- 99 rounds of ammunition
On January 12, 2025, a vandalized pipeline was found in Tuma, Rivers State, connected to a dugout pit with 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil. The Navy seized the stolen oil and reported the damage to authorities.
Between January 15 and 17, officers shut down multiple illegal refining sites in Bayelsa and Rivers States, recovering over 6,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
On January 19, 2025, the Navy intercepted a 30-meter wooden boat carrying 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Obe-Nla, Ondo State.
From January 20 to 23, 2025, officers deactivated several illegal refining sites in Rivers and Bayelsa States, seizing large amounts of stolen crude oil.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has assured Nigerians that the Navy is determined to stop oil theft and protect the country’s waterways. Operation DELTA SANITY II is part of the government’s efforts to end illegal oil activities in Nigeria.
The Navy has urged citizens to report suspicious activities to help combat crude oil theft and related crimes.
