Eight illegal oil refining camps were discovered and dismantled by the Nigerian Navy at Obe-Akinboye, a coastal community in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. The operation was carried out in the early hours of Tuesday, around 3.00 a.m., by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Igbokoda, following actionable intelligence.
Capt. Aliyu Usman, Commanding Officer of the base, confirmed the operation during a press briefing in Igbokoda. He explained that the swift action was the result of strong intelligence and constant surveillance. Once the illegal activity was confirmed, the Navy’s Quick Response Team stationed at a nearby outpost moved in immediately. On arrival, the suspects abandoned the scene and fled, leaving behind all equipment and stolen crude oil.
Upon inspection, the team found eight illegal refining camps loaded with about 50,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Alongside the stolen product were various tools used in the illegal trade. These included three wooden boats, several pumping machines, storage tanks, discharge pipes, and other refining equipment. In line with Defence Headquarters’ guidelines, the illegal camps and items were handled appropriately.
Captain Usman issued a clear warning to those involved in maritime crimes to cease their operations. He said the Navy remains committed to stopping crude oil theft and ensuring full security of Nigeria’s coastal waters. He also reaffirmed the Navy’s zero-tolerance policy against economic sabotage, noting that the operation followed the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to aggressively protect the nation’s maritime resources.
The operation marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against oil theft and reinforces the Navy’s dedication to securing the country’s economic lifelines.
