By Miriam Humbe
The Nigerian Navy, through Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY, has deactivated three illegal refining sites at Awokiri Community in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, uncovering approximately 117,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the
Director Naval Information disclosed this in a statement.
The operation was conducted on 5 November 2026 following credible intelligence on the activation of new illegal refining sites within the area.
During the operation, the naval team discovered 16 dugout pits, nine of which contained approximately 115,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
An additional storage tank contained about 2,000 litres, bringing the total volume to approximately 117,000 litres.
Four other pits contained water, while three were freshly excavated. The identified sites, pits and products were handled in accordance with extant regulations.
The operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s sustained commitment to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering through intelligence-driven operations.
By dismantling illegal refining infrastructure and disrupting criminal networks, the Service continues to protect critical oil and gas assets and safeguard the nation’s economic interests.
The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in denying economic saboteurs access to Nigeria’s petroleum resources while supporting national efforts to enhance crude oil production and strengthen security across the country’s maritime domain.
