The Nigerian Navy has intercepted about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and arrested eight persons in Rivers State as part of efforts to curb crude oil theft.
The operation, carried out under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, was executed by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, in the Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo axis of the state.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, said the success followed credible intelligence received by the naval patrol team.
“Acting on reliable intelligence, our operatives intercepted two wooden boats conveying suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil,” he said.
Folorunsho added that eight suspects linked to the illegal operation were apprehended during the raid, while some armed accomplices fled upon sighting the naval team.
“The arrested suspects and the recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” he stated.
He noted that the operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, which mandates intensified action against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.
According to him, the Navy will continue to sustain the momentum through intelligence-driven operations, increased patrols and collaboration with other security agencies.
“The Nigerian Navy remains committed to protecting the nation’s maritime environment and safeguarding critical national assets,” Folorunsho added.
