By KENNEDY ‌‌‍‍‌‍⁠⁠‌‌‍⁠‍‍‍‍‌‌SHEYIN

The Nigerian Navy, under Operation DELTA SENTINEL has discovered and dismantled three illegal refining sites within the Okolomade and Ogbogolo areas of Rivers, recovering approximately 91,000ltrs of crude oil.

This is contained in an operational report by the Director of Naval Information, Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho made available to newsmen on Saturday in Abuja.

Folorunsho said that the operation was conducted by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH on Friday following credible intelligence on the suspected reactivation of illegal refining activities within the area.

He also said that the operation uncovered two cooking drums, two large ovens, 10 reservoirs and four storage facilities associated with illegal refining activities.

“Two makeshift camps suspected to have provided shelter for illegal refiners were also discovered, alongside approximately 91,000 litres of product suspected to be stolen crude oil.

“The operation also led to the discovery of about 70 litres of product suspected to be illegally refined AGO,” he said.

He disclosed that the illegal refining sites, recovered products and associated materials were handled appropriately in accordance with established procedures.

He added that the operation effectively disrupted the reactivated facilities and denied the operators the infrastructure required to resume their activities.

According to him, the latest operation also underscores the navy’s sustained efforts to prevent criminal elements from rebuilding illegal refining infrastructure in areas previously affected by crude oil theft and illegal refining.

Folorunsho reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to degrading the infrastructure supporting crude oil theft, protecting critical national assets and safeguarding Nigeria’s oil and gas resources from economic saboteurs. (NAN)