Nigerian Navy Dismantles Illegal Refineries in Niger Delta

On August 31, 2026, the Nigerian Navy conducted operations in the Niger Delta, dismantling illegal refining sites and recovering 99,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil. Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Director of Naval Information, announced these operations, which were executed by Nigerian Navy Ships (NNS) SOROH and NNS DELTA, following credible intelligence regarding illegal petroleum activities.

The operations uncovered extensive illegal refining infrastructure, including a large refining oven, storage facilities, and dugout reservoirs containing suspected stolen crude oil. Folorunsho stated that these discoveries significantly disrupted illicit petroleum activities and that the identified sites and recovered products were handled according to established procedures.

He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy's commitment to maintaining maritime security operations to protect the nation's oil and gas assets and curb economic sabotage in the region. The operations demonstrate the Navy's resolve to deny criminal networks the infrastructure necessary for crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.