The Nigerian Navy’s Operation Delta Sanity said it deactivated 124 illegal refining sites and arrested 55 suspected oil thieves in the past nine months in the Niger Delta.

The Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Adm. Samson Bura, stated this at a news conference on Thursday in Yenagoa.

Besides, Mr Bura said that the operation led to the arrest of six vessels, deactivation of 116 wooden boats, 543 dugout pits and 64 storage tanks.

He added that several items and equipment used in the construction of illegal refineries were seized, adding that the operations were done in accordance with extant regulations.

According to him, the achievement impacted positively on the nation’s oil production, which the NNPCL confirmed.

“The country currently produces 1.7 million barrels per day, constituting a significant increase compared to about 1.3 million barrels per day in June 2024,” he said.

He reiterated that Operation Delta Sanity was activated on January 10 to build on the gains recorded during Operation Dakatar da Barawo.

According to him, the operation has been conducted leveraging on technologies from the Nigerian Navy Maritime Domain Awareness facilities, intelligence inputs and kinetic operations.

“Others are non-kinetic approaches ranging from medical, media, educational outreaches and community engagements, amongst others.

“Based on the achievements and successes recorded so far, the Chief of Naval Staff has graciously approved the extension of Operation Delta Sanity for another 90 days with effect from October 10, 2024. These efforts will be sustained to ensure zero tolerance of crude oil theft in the nation’s maritime environment,” he said.

He also appreciated other security agencies, maritime stakeholders, community leaders and youths as well as members of the press and other well-meaning Nigerians for their continuous support in the fight against oil theft.

(NAN)