By Saminu Ibrahim
The Nigerian Navy has dismantled three illegal refining sites at Awokiri Community in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, recovering approximately 117,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
The operation, conducted on November 5, 2026, by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) BONNY, followed credible intelligence reports indicating the activation of new illegal refining facilities in the area.
A statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the naval team discovered 16 dugout pits during the operation.
According to the statement, nine of the pits contained approximately 115,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, while an additional storage tank held about 2,000 litres.
It added that four other pits contained water, while three were freshly excavated.
The Navy said the identified illegal refining sites, pits and recovered petroleum products were handled in accordance with extant regulations.
The operation, according to the statement, underscores the Service’s sustained commitment to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering through intelligence-driven operations.
It added that the dismantling of illegal refining infrastructure would help disrupt criminal networks, protect critical oil and gas assets and safeguard the nation’s economic interests.
Meanwhile the Navy reaffirmed its determination to deny economic saboteurs access to Nigeria’s petroleum resources while supporting national efforts to increase crude oil production and strengthen security across the country’s maritime domain.
