On Thursday, March 27, the Nigerian Navy announced that it had successfully shut down three illegal oil refining sites in Delta State. Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Escravos, revealed the operation took place on Monday after receiving reliable information.
The illegal refining sites were found in the coastal community of Oteghele in Obodo Omadino, located in Warri South-West Local Government Area. According to Captain Okoloagu, the sites contained around 2,700 liters of stolen crude oil and 2,200 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO). These products were found in two ovens, 10 dug-out pits, two drums, and 26 polythene sacks.
Captain Okoloagu explained that the operation was part of the ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other crimes that damage the nation’s economy. He emphasized that this successful mission was in line with the broader goals of Operation DELTA SANITY II, which is based on reliable intelligence.
He also noted that the operation reflected the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to carrying out the directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, which focus on eliminating illegal activities in the country’s maritime environment.
Captain Okoloagu issued a warning to criminals involved in sabotaging Nigeria’s economic assets, stating that anyone caught would face serious consequences.
