The Nigerian Navy has disrupted two illegal refining sites in Rivers State and recovered about 34,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), with the seized product estimated to be worth N56.5 million at prevailing diesel market prices.
Personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER discovered and deactivated the two sites around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area during an operation on August 28, 2026.
Director of Information, Nigerian Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the recovered AGO was stored in dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs, alongside other materials associated with illegal refining activities.
Daily Trust report that the N56.6 million, estimated value of the seizure is based on a diesel price of about N1,662.50 per litre.
At that benchmark, the 34,000 litres recovered by the Navy translates to approximately N56.53 million in market value.
The value highlights the growing economic incentive behind illegal refining and the potential revenue losses associated with the diversion of crude oil and petroleum products from the legitimate supply chain.
The operation is part of sustained efforts by NNS PATHFINDER to prevent the re-establishment of illegal refining infrastructure in the area.
The Navy said continued interventions had contributed to a decline in the reactivation of such sites.
No arrest was made as the suspected operators reportedly fled before the arrival of the naval team.
The Navy said the recovered products and associated materials were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.
It added that operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL would continue as part of efforts to disrupt crude oil theft and illegal refining, protect critical national assets and safeguard legitimate economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime and riverine environment.