The Nigerian Navy has sustained efforts to disrupt illegal crude oil refining activities in Rivers State, with personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder identifying and deactivating two sites.

The director of naval information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

According to Mr Folorunsho, the operation was conducted around the Ohaji axis of Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area on Friday.

“The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 34,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) contained in dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs, alongside other items associated with the illegal refining activities.

“The latest operation forms part of sustained efforts by NNS PATHFINDER to prevent the re-establishment of illegal refining infrastructure in the area”, he said.

He also said the continued interventions had contributed to a decline in the reactivation of such sites in the general area.

He said the identified sites, recovered products and associated items were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.

“No arrest was made as the suspected operators fled before the arrival of the naval team,” he added.

Mr Folorunsho reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations under Operation Delta Sentinel to disrupt crude oil theft and illegal refining activities.

“The service remains committed to protecting critical national assets and safeguarding legitimate economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime and riverine environment,” he said.

(NAN)