Navy Destroys Illegal Refining Sites, Recover Stolen Crude In Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has destroyed two illegal refining sites containing approximately 56,800 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Ogbogolo Community, Ahoada West local government area of Rivers State.

A statement by the Navy spokesman Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho said the operation was conducted on November 13, 2026 by Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, following credible intelligence on illegal refining activities within the Orashi Forest.

He said the two sites comprised one refining oven, 22 dugout pits and four sacks containing the suspected stolen crude oil. He explained that the first site held approximately 1,800 litres, while the second contained an estimated 55,000 litres.

The director said discovered products and associated items were subsequently handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.

He noted that the operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s sustained commitment to dismantling illegal refining infrastructure and disrupting the networks responsible for crude oil theft.

“Through intelligence-driven operations, the Service continues to deny economic saboteurs access to the nation’s petroleum resources and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure,” he said.