The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder has successfully dismantled nine illegal refining sites in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State as part of its intensified efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region.

According to a statement signed by Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, Commander of NNS Pathfinder, the operation conducted on May 12, 2025, led to the discovery of 45 ovens, 30 reservoirs, and 75 dugout pits containing approximately 60,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 80,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.

The naval operation also resulted in the destruction of 33,000 litres of kerosene. The Tactical Riverine Assault Squadron Team further discovered two wellheads that had been technically connected with pipelines, believed to be used by oil thieves to siphon crude oil directly into their illegal refining camps.

Commodore Aniaku noted that all seized products were handled in accordance with standard anti-crude oil theft protocols. However, no arrests were made during the operation as the suspects fled upon sighting the approaching naval team.

"The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral E.I. Ogalla, remains resolute in tackling crude oil theft and illegal bunkering activities which pose serious threats to our nation's economy and energy security," Aniaku stated while commending the courage and professionalism displayed by his personnel during the operation.

This operation is part of the Nigerian Navy's ongoing campaign to protect Nigeria's maritime resources and curb economic sabotage in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. Illegal oil refining and bunkering have been persistent challenges in the area, causing significant revenue losses to the federal government and environmental degradation in local communities.

The Nigerian Navy continues to enhance its surveillance and patrol activities in strategic waterways to disrupt the operations of oil thieves and protect critical national assets in the maritime domain.