Navy Intercepts Over 11,000 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil in Niger Delta

The Nigerian Navy, operating under the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos, has shut down six illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta creeks as part of its ongoing efforts to curb crude oil theft and strengthen national oil production.

During the operation, naval personnel also recovered approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude oil, discovered in 28 dugout pits and six polythene sacks, alongside a pumping machine used for the illicit activity.

Speaking to journalists in Warri on Friday, the Commanding Officer of FOB Escravos, Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, said the success was achieved through credible intelligence under Operation Delta Sanity II.

He noted that the operation reflects the Nigerian Navy’s strategic directive, led by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, which focuses on maintaining pressure on oil thieves, pipeline vandals, and other economic saboteurs.

Providing details, Okoloagu said:

“Between October 2 and 6, 2025, our operatives carried out coordinated operations that led to the deactivation of six illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.”

He explained that the sites dismantled on October 2 contained 3,750 litres of stolen crude oil, while those taken down on October 4 and 6 yielded an additional 7,450 litres, bringing the total to 11,200 litres.

Okoloagu reaffirmed the base’s commitment to safeguarding national oil assets, stressing that the Navy will continue to sustain the fight against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities across the Niger Delta.

He added that the operations were part of the Navy’s wider mission to support the Federal Government’s drive to boost crude oil production and eliminate economic sabotage in the region.