The Nigerian Navy has successfully dismantled nine illegal refineries and seized a total of 173,000 litres of stolen oil in Rivers. This marks a major step in the ongoing fight against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering in the state.

On May 12, 2025, the NNS Pathfinder’s Tactical Riverine Assault Squadron Team carried out a mission in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, where they destroyed nine illegal refining sites and confiscated large amounts of stolen products. The products included 60,000 litres of suspected crude oil, 80,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 33,000 litres of kerosene.

During this operation, the team discovered 45 ovens, 30 reservoirs, and 75 dugout pits used for refining stolen oil. These illegal operations had been running in the area for some time, with significant quantities of stolen products being processed.

The NNS Pathfinder team also uncovered two wellheads connected to pipes, which were being used by oil thieves to steal crude oil from pipelines. These wellheads were linked to illegal camps, where the stolen oil was stored.

According to Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, the operation was based on reliable intelligence. He confirmed that no arrests were made as the criminals fled when they saw the patrol team. The seized products were carefully handled according to the Navy’s procedures for tackling oil theft.

Commodore Aniaku praised the bravery of the Navy personnel involved in the operation and reiterated the Navy’s dedication to fighting crude oil theft and illegal bunkering. These illegal activities are serious threats to Nigeria’s economy and energy security. Under the leadership of Vice Admiral E. I. Ogalla, the Nigerian Navy will continue to take strong actions to protect the country’s resources.