Nigerian Navy Deactivates 124 Illegal Refining Sites, Arrests 55 Suspects in Niger Delta

The Nigerian Navy has announced significant progress in its crackdown on illegal oil refining operations in the Niger Delta.

Troops from Operation Delta Sanity deactivated 124 illegal refining sites and arrested 55 suspects involved in oil theft and illegal refining over the past four months.

This was disclosed by the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Samson Bura, during a press briefing in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Thursday.

Rear Admiral Bura revealed that in addition to the arrests, the Navy deactivated 116 wooden boats, 543 dugout pits, and 64 storage tanks. Six vessels suspected of being involved in oil theft were also seized.

“Since the extension of the operation in July 2024, a total of 55 suspects have been arrested, and about 124 illegal refinery sites have been deactivated in accordance with existing regulations,” Bura stated.

“Furthermore, 116 wooden boats, 543 dugout pits, and 64 storage tanks were deactivated, while six vessels were arrested. Several items and equipment used in the construction of illegal refineries were also seized.”

Bura emphasized that the Navy’s operations have had a positive impact on Nigeria’s oil production, which has increased to 1.7 million barrels per day from 1.3 million in June 2024, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

He also expressed appreciation for the collaboration of security agencies, maritime stakeholders, community leaders, youths, and Nigerians in the ongoing fight against crude oil theft.