Nigerian Navy personnel under Operation DELTA SENTINEL have seized a large quantity of illegally refined petroleum products and arrested eight suspected oil thieves in the Degema, Ogbogoro, and Ogbologo areas of Rivers State.
According to a statement by the Naval Spokesman, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, personnel aboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER acted on credible intelligence of ongoing illicit activities, deploying an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team. The operation led to the interception of two wooden boats carrying approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Eight suspects were apprehended, while other armed accomplices fled upon sighting the naval patrol. “The arrested suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” the statement said.
Captain Folorunsho emphasized the Navy’s continued commitment to intelligence-led operations, enhanced patrols, and inter-agency collaboration to protect Nigeria’s critical national assets and economic interests.
He added that the success of the operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who has tasked operational commanders with intensifying efforts against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other maritime crimes across the country.
