Abuja: A daring operation by the Nigerian Navy has cut off a major channel for illegal fuel movement in Rivers State, resulting in the seizure of nearly 23,000 litres of diesel.
The operation, carried out under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, was led by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH in the Orashi Forest area of Okolomade Community, Abua/Odual Local Government Area.
The location, which borders Bayelsa’s Ogbia Local Government Area, has long been a hotspot for illicit refining and smuggling.
Acting on credible intelligence, the naval patrol intercepted a wooden boat loaded with 36 sacks of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
But the discovery didn’t end there. Using drone surveillance, the team spotted more hidden stockpiles tucked under thick vegetation and submerged in ponds.
A thorough search uncovered 45 additional sacks, raising the total haul to 81 sacks — about 22,870 litres of diesel.
By seizing the boat and its cargo, the Navy not only recovered the products but also disrupted a logistics chain that fuels illegal refining activities across the Niger Delta.
“This operation denies criminal elements the freedom to move stolen petroleum products and reinforces our resolve to protect Nigeria’s economic assets,” said Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information.
The Navy has pledged to sustain intelligence-driven patrols, ensuring waterways remain hostile to oil thieves and safe for legitimate commerce.
