The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State, disrupting two illegal refining sites and recovering approximately 33,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The operation, conducted by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER on Sunday, September 6, 2026, took place in Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation uncovered eight dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs reportedly associated with illegal refining activities.
The Navy said the illegal refining sites and recovered products were subsequently handled in accordance with established procedures.
The latest operation comes amid sustained efforts by the Navy to prevent the resurgence of illegal refining activities in the area. The service had previously disrupted two illegal refining sites in the same area on August 28, 2026.
The Navy said continued operations were constraining the ability of illegal operators to re-establish and sustain their illicit refining activities.
No arrest was made during the latest operation, as the suspected operators reportedly fled before the arrival of the naval team.
The Navy reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations against illegal refining and other activities that undermine Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and national economy.
