The Nigerian Navy has uncovered nine illegal oil refining sites in Rivers State during a series of coordinated operations aimed at curbing crude oil theft, environmental pollution, and other economic crimes within the Niger Delta. According to military authorities, the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure, safeguard national assets, and reduce the activities of criminal networks involved in illegal refining and pipeline vandalism. Security personnel reportedly destroyed makeshift refining equipment, recovered large quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products, and dismantled facilities used to sustain the illicit operations. The Navy stated that the crackdown is part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime security, combat economic sabotage, and improve the country’s oil production capacity by preventing the diversion of crude oil into illegal markets. Officials also noted that illegal refining activities have continued to contribute to severe environmental degradation, including oil spills, destruction of farmlands, pollution of rivers, and health risks for surrounding communities. They reaffirmed the service’s commitment to working closely with other security agencies, regulatory authorities, and local communities to identify and dismantle illegal refining networks across the region. Residents were encouraged to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing further criminal activities while supporting efforts to protect the environment and national economic interests. The Nigerian Navy emphasized that sustained operations against crude oil theft remain essential to improving energy security, increasing government revenue, and preserving critical infrastructure. Authorities pledged to maintain intensified surveillance and enforcement activities to ensure those responsible for illegal refining and related offences are identified and brought to justice.
