The Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos of the Nigerian Navy has dismantled eight illegal refining sites in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State. This was confirmed by the Commanding Officer, Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, during a press briefing on Tuesday in Warri.
Captain Okoloagu stated that the illegal sites were uncovered and destroyed in three different operations carried out within the Obodo Omadino Community. The operations were executed as part of Operation Delta Sanity II, following verified intelligence reports.
On May 14, personnel from FOB Escravos located and shut down two illegal refining camps, where 5,625 litres of stolen crude oil were found hidden in one oven and 17 dugout pits. Days later, on May 19, another sweep in the same area led to the discovery of three more sites. There, naval operatives recovered about 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO), hidden in one oven, five dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.
Continuing the crackdown, the team launched a third operation on May 27 at Oteghele, also in Obodo Omadino. Three additional illegal refining setups were exposed, with approximately 7,915 litres of stolen crude oil found stored in 21 dugout pits.
Altogether, the Navy deactivated eight illegal sites, seizing roughly 16,040 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined AGO. The materials were hidden across two ovens, 43 dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.
Captain Okoloagu emphasized the base’s firm dedication to fulfilling the strategic directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, which aim to eliminate all forms of maritime crime across Nigeria’s waterways. He warned those involved in such activities to stop immediately or face the full weight of the law.
