Port Harcourt, May 14, 2025 — The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder has dismantled nine illegal refining sites and seized approximately 175,000 litres of suspected stolen petroleum products in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The operation, carried out on May 12, exposed an extensive network of illicit activities, including 45 refining ovens, 30 storage reservoirs, and 75 dugout pits, according to a statement by Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, Commander of NNS Pathfinder.
Details of the Seizure:
- 60,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil
- 80,000 litres of suspected illegally refined diesel (AGO)
- 33,000 litres of kerosene
The illegal facilities were destroyed on-site to prevent further exploitation and environmental harm.
The Navy also discovered two wellheads connected via underground pipes used by oil thieves to siphon crude directly to their camps. The pipes were dismantled as part of the operation.
“The Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, remains committed to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering,” said Commodore Aniaku. “These activities pose grave threats to our national economy and energy security.”
No arrests were made as the perpetrators fled before the arrival of the tactical squad.
Aniaku praised the personnel for their bravery and professionalism, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s oil infrastructure through ongoing anti-theft and bunkering operations.
