The Nigerian Navy has sustained its operations against illegal refining activities in Rivers State, with personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER identifying and deactivating two illegal refining sites around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted on August 28, 2026, also led to the recovery of approximately 34,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The Navy disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday by its spokesperson, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorusho.
According to the statement, ‘the operation, conducted on 28 August 2026, resulted in the recovery of approximately 34,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) contained in dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs, alongside other items associated with the illegal refining activities.’
The Navy said the latest operation was part of sustained efforts by NNS PATHFINDER to prevent the re-establishment of illegal refining infrastructure in the area.
It added that the continued interventions had contributed to a decline in the reactivation of such sites within the general area.
The statement further said the identified sites, recovered products and associated items were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.
It noted, however, that no arrest was made as the suspected operators had fled before the arrival of the naval team.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to disrupt crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.
It said the operations were also aimed at protecting critical national assets and safeguarding legitimate economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime and riverine environment.