Nigerian Navy Dismantles Illegal Refining Camp, Seizes 35,000 Litres of Stolen Oil
On January 6, 2025, the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda carried out a significant operation to curb crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta region. The operation, based on credible intelligence, targeted a notorious illegal refining camp located in the Obenla community, where nine illegal refining sites were discovered.
Captain Aliyu Usman, Commander of the Base, shared the details of the successful operation with journalists. He explained that although the suspects fled the scene before naval operatives arrived, the team managed to uncover a large quantity of stolen and illegally refined crude oil. The site contained 20,000 litres of crude oil yet to be processed and 15,000 litres of suspected automatic gas oil (AGO), also known as diesel.
“The perpetrators had clearly been tipped off about our impending arrival and fled the area in fear of arrest,” Usman said. “However, we were able to seize a significant amount of illicit crude oil and refined products, making this another victory in our ongoing efforts to protect the environment and stop illegal activities.”
Usman reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to tackling illegal refining and its environmental impact. He also used the opportunity to educate the residents of Obenla about the dangers of supporting such illicit operations. He urged them to avoid harbouring criminal activities and to consider legitimate business alternatives.
The Navy’s crackdown on oil theft and illegal refining continues as part of broader efforts to safeguard the nation’s resources and security. Usman concluded, “We will not rest until all illegal activities are completely eradicated, and we remain determined to sustain these efforts long-term.”
