Nigerian Military Seizes $300M in Illegal Crude Oil

The Nigerian military, specifically the Joint Task Force (JTF) South South, has successfully intercepted vessels carrying illegal crude oil estimated to be worth $300 million as part of an intensified crackdown on oil bunkering in the Niger Delta. This operation, known as Delta Safe, resulted in the recovery of 531,500 liters of illegal refined petroleum products and the arrest of 18 suspects linked to maritime-related crimes in the first quarter of 2026.

The JTF's operations, launched on January 13, 2026, aim to strengthen the protection of Nigeria's maritime environment and combat crude oil theft. A statement from the Director of Naval Information indicated that February recorded the highest recovery of illegal oil, totaling 360,700 liters, following 118,800 liters in January and 52,000 liters in March.

The operations targeted areas around Warri, Oteghel Creek, and other locations, dismantling illegal oil infrastructure, including 12 illegal refinery sites and three storage facilities.