Nigerian Navy has seized 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Ondo State, in a major operation under its ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft.
This operation, part of Delta Sanity II, demonstrates the Navy’s unwavering commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime resources and curbing illegal activities that threaten the nation’s economy and security.
The seizure highlights the proactive stance the Navy has taken in addressing the rising issue of oil theft along the country’s coastline.
According to Navy, in January, several key operations took place under the Nigerian Navy’s Delta Sanity II campaign. On January 6, two boats carrying 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil were seized in Rivers State.
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“The following day, January 7, the Navy dismantled nine illegal refinery sites and recovered 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil in Ondo State. On January 10, a wooden boat carrying six drums of illegally refined fuel was intercepted in Akwa Ibom, leading to the arrest of five suspects.
“On January 11, a militant camp in Bayelsa was raided, resulting in the arrest of two kidnappers and the recovery of weapons, including rifles and ammunition.
“The next day, January 12, a vandalized flow line connected to a dugout pit containing 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil was discovered in Rivers State.
“On January 15, three illegal refinery sites were deactivated in Bayelsa, and 20 drums of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO) were seized.
“Finally, on January 17, another illegal refining site in Bayelsa was deactivated, with 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil recovered” it stated.
The Navy also noted that operations continued, with the dismantling of illegal refineries, recovering stolen crude oil, and making multiple arrests.
“Notably, on January 19, a 30-meter boat carrying 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil was seized in Ondo State, and on January 27, a major crackdown in Rivers State led to the recovery of 31,000 litres of crude oil, along with several wellheads, ovens, and reservoirs”, the Navy added.
Read also: Navy intercepts 100,000 litres of stolen crude oil in A’Ibom
Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to eliminating crude oil theft and other maritime crimes, assuring the public that operations like Delta Sanity II will continue to play a crucial role in enhancing the nation’s economic stability and security.
The Nigerian Navy also urges the public to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
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