The Nigerian Navy has recorded another major breakthrough in the fight against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, intercepting about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and arresting eight suspects in Rivers State.
The operation, conducted under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, took place in the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo general areas following credible intelligence on ongoing illicit refining and fuel transportation activities in the area.
A statement from Naval Headquarters says personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER deployed an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team, which intercepted two wooden boats laden with the suspected illegal petroleum products. The patrol team also apprehended eight suspects allegedly linked to the operation, while some armed accomplices reportedly fled on sighting the naval personnel.
The Navy said the suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Service noted that the latest success is in line with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who has tasked operational commanders to intensify efforts against crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the momentum of Operation DELTA SENTINEL through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced patrols and inter-agency collaboration aimed at protecting Nigeria’s critical national assets and economic interests.
