The Nigerian Navy has successfully intercepted approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products during a naval operation in Rivers State. The operation, which is part of the broader initiative known as Operation DELTA SENTINEL, involved personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER patrolling the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo area. Acting on credible intelligence, the naval patrol team was able to stop two wooden boats that were loaded with Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), which is believed to have been refined illegally.

Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, stated that the operation led to the arrest of eight suspects associated with the illegal petroleum refining activities. Some armed accomplices reportedly fled the scene upon noticing the naval patrol team, which highlights the dangers still posed by illegal refineries and their protectors in the region. The navy confirmed that the intercepted products and the suspects are currently in custody, ready to be handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and potential prosecution.

This operation is part of the Nigerian Navy's ongoing efforts to combat illegal oil refining, which has significant economic and environmental implications for the country. Illegal oil refining continues to thrive in Nigeria, contributing to revenue loss and environmental degradation. The navy’s actions underscore the importance of addressing these illegal activities to maintain security and ensure that natural resources are utilized legally and sustainably. Such interventions also serve as a deterrent to future illegal operations in the region.