Navy Strikes Again, Seizes 52,600 Litres of Suspected Stolen Crude in Rivers

By Queen Madaki

The Nigerian Navy has recovered approximately 52,600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil during an intelligence-led operation targeting crude oil theft in Rivers State.

The operation, carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel, forms part of the Navy’s sustained campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities across the Niger Delta. As The Bureau Journal reports, the latest recovery underscores ongoing efforts to curb economic sabotage and safeguard Nigeria’s critical oil infrastructure.

Operation Leads to Major Crude Oil Seizure

According to the Nigerian Navy, personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder intercepted two wooden boats at Ogoloma in Okrika Local Government Area after acting on credible intelligence obtained during a routine patrol.

The boats were reportedly preparing to offload suspected petroleum products when naval operatives moved in and intercepted them.

Following a search of the vessels, officers discovered approximately 250 sacks containing about 52,600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.

Materials for Illegal Refining Recovered

Beyond the crude oil seizure, the patrol team also recovered several materials allegedly meant for the construction of illegal refining sites.

The discovery suggests that those behind the operation were planning to expand illicit refining activities before the intervention by security personnel.

Navy Says Operation Frustrated Economic Saboteurs

Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, said the successful operation disrupted attempts by criminal elements to supply illegal refining camps with crude oil and equipment.

He noted that the operation denied economic saboteurs access to both crude oil and the materials required to sustain their illegal activities.

Folorunsho added that all recovered products and associated materials were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.

Nigerian Navy Reaffirms Commitment

The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling crude oil theft syndicates, disrupting illegal refining activities, and protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure.

The Bureau Journal understands that the Navy has continued to intensify operations across the Niger Delta as part of broader efforts to curb oil theft, improve maritime security, and protect the nation’s economy.

As developments continue to unfold, The Bureau Journal will provide verified updates on anti-crude oil theft operations and other major security stories shaping Nigeria News Today.