Nigerian Navy arrests 259 oil thieves, destroys refineries

Between November 2025 and November 2026, the Nigerian Navy arrested 259 suspects and destroyed 168 illegal refineries as part of its operations against oil theft and pipeline vandalism. The Navy impounded four vessels suspected of involvement in oil theft and recovered over 7.48 million litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products.

The Navy secured nine convictions related to these offences and maintained Nigeria's zero-piracy status through intelligence-driven operations. In January 2026, the Navy activated Operation Delta Sentinel to intensify efforts against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.

Additionally, the Navy commissioned three high-speed patrol vessels, NNS OLOIBIRI, NNS MAMBILA, and NNS GURARA, in June 2026 to enhance maritime surveillance. The Navy also undertook infrastructure development, including over 36 projects and the construction of a 200-bed Reference Hospital, while executing 93 community development projects to support local needs.