Navy Uncovers 31 Illegal Refining Pits, Recovers 62,050 Litres of Petroleum Products in Rivers
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered two suspected illegal refining sites and recovered approximately 62,050 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products in Ogbogolo community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The operation was carried out on September 8, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL as part of ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.
According to the Navy, the team discovered 31 dugout pits containing about 58,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 4,050 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.
The personnel also recovered six sacks and one keg containing additional quantities of suspected illegally refined AGO.
The illegal refining sites were located within the Orashi Forest and the wider Ogbogolo area. However, no arrests were made as the suspects reportedly fled after sighting the naval team.
The Navy stated that the sites were handled in accordance with existing regulations.
Operation DELTA SENTINEL has recorded several successes since its inception, reinforcing the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to tackling illegal refining, disrupting crude oil theft and protecting Nigeria’s petroleum resources and economic interests.
