Gift Wada
The Nigerian Navy has intensified efforts to curb crude oil theft and maritime crimes, recording significant successes under Operation Delta Sanity II in January 2025.
The operation, aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, led to multiple arrests, seizures, and the dismantling of illegal refining sites across several states.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla In a statement, highlighted major breakthroughs, including the seizure of over 100,000 litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined petroleum products.
He said, “Notably, on January 19, a 30-meter wooden boat carrying 40,000 litres of stolen crude oil was seized in Ondo State, while on January 27, six vandalized wellheads and over 45 reservoirs containing stolen crude oil were discovered and deactivated in Rivers State.”
“Several illegal refinery sites in Rivers, Ondo, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Delta States were dismantled, with hundreds of cooking tanks, metal storage tanks, and dugout pits destroyed to prevent further illicit activities. Additionally, the Navy arrested suspected oil thieves and two alleged kidnappers during a raid on a militant camp in Bayelsa State, recovering firearms and ammunition, he added.
Ogalla, reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to eliminating crude oil theft, protecting Nigeria’s economic interests, and ensuring maritime security.
He assured that the Navy will continue to work relentlessly to safeguard the nation’s waters and curb all forms of illegal oil activities.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, urged the public to support their efforts and report suspicious activities, emphasizing that continued operations will help secure Nigeria’s oil sector and deter economic sabotage.