By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Asaba
DELTA: In a renewed crackdown on crude oil theft, the Nigerian Navy has dismantled three illegal refining sites in Obodo Omadinho, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.
The operation, carried out by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos on Monday, was part of the ongoing Operation Delta Sanity II.
The illegal refining sites were found to contain approximately 3,700 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,900 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), stored in three ovens, seven dugout pits, and 31 polythene sacks.
According to naval authorities, the successful raid underscores the Navy’s commitment to eradicating illegal activities that sabotage the nation’s economy.
“This operation is in line with the Strategic Directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla. Our mission is clear: to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment and prevent further economic losses due to oil theft,” a senior naval officer said.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its resolve to sustain its onslaught against crude oil thieves, urging local communities to support security efforts by providing credible intelligence.
Oil theft remains a major challenge in the Niger Delta, with illegal refining sites contributing to environmental degradation and economic losses. Security experts have called for a more coordinated approach, including community engagement and technological surveillance, to address the issue effectively.
With this latest operation, the Navy sends a strong message to oil thieves, warning that illicit activities in the region will not be tolerated.