By Stella Odueme
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered approximately 117,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and deactivated three illegal refining sites in Awokiri Community, Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, on Saturday, the operation was carried out on Thursday by personnel of the Navy's Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny following credible intelligence about the activation of new illegal refining sites in the area.
During the operation, the naval team discovered 16 dugout pits, nine of which contained about 115,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil. Another storage tank held approximately 2,000 litres, bringing the total quantity recovered to 117,000 litres.
Four other pits contained water, while three were freshly excavated.
The Navy said the identified sites, pits and products were handled in accordance with extant regulations.
It stated that the operation underscored its commitment to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering through intelligence-driven operations, while protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure and safeguarding the nation's economic interests.
The Service added that it would sustain efforts to deny economic saboteurs access to Nigeria's petroleum resources and support national efforts to boost crude oil production and strengthen maritime security.