Navy destroys illegal crude oil storage site in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy has destroyed an illegal crude oil storage facility in the Bonny area of Rivers State as part of ongoing operations to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta.

The operation was carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel following directives from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Idi Abbas.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Naval Information, A. A. Folorunsho, naval personnel attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny uncovered the illegal storage site during a surveillance operation in the Opotumbi general area.

The discovery was made with the aid of the Nigerian Navy’s maritime surveillance technology, which detected concealed dugout pits hidden beneath thick vegetation within the creeks.

Naval operatives who moved to the location reportedly found four dugout pits containing about 17,500 litres of substances suspected to be stolen crude oil.

The products were subsequently destroyed in line with existing operational guidelines.

The Navy said the operation reflects renewed efforts to tackle crude oil theft and other maritime crimes in the region through sustained patrols, improved surveillance and enhanced collaboration with relevant agencies.

It added that the service remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s critical national assets and safeguarding the country’s economic interests within the maritime domain.