Nigerian Navy Dismantles Illegal Refinery, Seizes Fuel

The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, resulting in the destruction of an illegal refinery in Rivers State and the interception of 3,950 liters of suspected stolen petroleum in Cross River State. Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, disclosed that personnel from the Nigerian Navy ship Soroh conducted operations in the Okolomad community, Abua Odual Local Government Area, where they dismantled a reactivated illegal refinery site.

This action followed credible intelligence indicating that dismantled sites had resumed operations. The operation uncovered additional refining equipment and storage facilities containing 3,000 liters of suspected illegally refined automotive gas oil.

Furthermore, the Nigerian Navy ship Victoria intercepted the stolen petroleum product in Calabar, tracing it back to a vessel at the port. The naval patrol team cordoned off the area, leading to the recovery of the stolen product for further action in line with existing regulations.

These efforts align with directives from Vice Adm. Idi Abba, Chief of Naval Staff, to combat maritime crime across Nigeria.