The Nigerian Navy has announced major gains in the ongoing fight against oil theft and illegal refining, revealing that 215 suspects and 26 vessels were apprehended in 2024 under Operation Delta Sanity.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the Navy’s 69th Anniversary, Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, stated that 468 illegal refinery sites were deactivated during the operation. According to Dewu, the Navy also seized 6.5 million litres of stolen crude oil and seven million litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil.
He added that other illegal infrastructures dismantled included 361 wooden boats, 1,107 dugout pits, and 279 storage tanks. From January to May 2025 alone, 103 additional refinery sites were destroyed, with 34 suspects arrested. The Navy also recovered 773,000 litres of crude oil and 150,000 litres of refined petroleum products.
“These efforts have significantly contributed to improving Nigeria’s oil production and exports, in line with the directive of President Bola Tinubu to eradicate crude oil theft,” Rear Admiral Dewu said.
He also highlighted the Navy’s continued monitoring of Nigeria’s maritime borders using surveillance technologies such as the Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems, helping to maintain Nigeria’s zero-piracy rating.
The Navy Week celebrations will run from May 23 to June 1, showcasing the service’s operational progress and strategic achievements.
(NAN)
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