Nigerian Navy Destroys 3 Illegal Refineries in Bayelsa, Recovers Stolen Crude Oil Products

• Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base FORMOSO destroys three illegal refining sites, recovers 50,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil products
• The operation is part of the Navy’s “Delta Sanity” to curb oil theft and illegal bunkering, focusing on Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, FORMOSO, in Bayelsa, executed the destruction of three illegal refining sites between Sunday and Tuesday, according to Captain Murtala Rogo, the Commanding Officer. The operation led to the recovery of 50,000 litres of products suspected to be derived from stolen crude oil.

Captain Rogo explained that the initiative aligns with the Nigerian Navy’s Operation “Delta Sanity,” aimed at curbing oil theft and illegal bunkering activities. On Sunday, the Navy’s patrol team identified one illegal refinery site and a wooden boat containing approximately 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil at Galubakiri Creek in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Furthermore, another illegal refinery site with about 17,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil was discovered on the same day around Mbiakpaba, also in Nembe Local Government Area. Both sites and the boat were appropriately handled following the extant Rules of Engagement.

On January 30, during a patrol exercise in the Obama, Igbikiba, Igbomotoru, and Tebidaba General Area, the patrol team intercepted two wooden boats carrying remnants of products believed to be stolen crude oil at Diebu Creek in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

While scouring other creeks, the team uncovered another illegal refinery site with 15,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and five ovens at Biabagbene in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. The illegal refinery site was addressed, and the ovens were dismantled.

Captain Rogo noted that ongoing investigations are focused on uncovering the criminal networks associated with the illegal refining sites. The Nigerian Navy continues to combat illegal activities undermining the nation’s security and economic well-being.