Nigerian Navy Intercepts 44,000 Litres of Illegal Fuel, Arrests Eight in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another operational success under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, intercepting a large consignment of illegally refined petroleum products and arresting eight suspected oil thieves in Rivers State.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, who said the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence.

According to him, the operation took place in the Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo general areas, where illegal bunkering activities had been reported.

Folorunsho explained that personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER deployed an anti-crude oil theft patrol team, leading to the interception of two wooden boats loaded with about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

He added that eight suspects linked to the illegal operation were arrested, while some armed accomplices fled upon sighting the naval team.

“The arrested suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” he said.

The naval spokesperson noted that the success aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who has tasked commanders to intensify the fight against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.

Folorunsho assured that the Navy would sustain the momentum through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced patrols and collaboration with other security agencies to safeguard the nation’s economic assets.