In a decisive move against illegal oil activities, the Nigerian Navy has dismantled an illicit refining site in Peterside Community, Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State. The operation, executed on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, also resulted in the denial of approximately 19,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil to criminal elements.
Lieutenant Commander Sirajo Almustapha, the Base Operations Officer of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny, revealed these details, emphasising that the actions align with the operational guidelines and strategic imperatives set forth by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.
Acting on reliable intelligence, operatives from FOB BONNY swiftly raided the suspected illegal refining site. Their focused intervention led to the discovery and immediate deactivation of equipment employed in the illicit operation. The site contained two cooking tanks, two storage tanks, two plastic tanks, a large water tank, and a dug-out pit.
Further inspection revealed a significant quantity of suspected stolen crude oil at the site: approximately 5,000 liters in one storage tank, around 1,000 liters in the plastic tanks, and an estimated 1,000 liters within the dug-out pit. Following the deactivation of the illegal refinery, an investigation is underway to identify and apprehend those involved in its operation.
During the team’s withdrawal from the community, a large wooden boat, carefully concealed, was discovered laden with about 2,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil. This vessel was promptly confiscated in accordance with existing regulations.
In a parallel operation earlier the same day, around 0030 hours, FOB Bonny operatives stationed at the Oputumbi general area acted on credible intelligence to intercept another large wooden boat near the Owokpo general area. Upon inspection, this boat was found to be carrying approximately 10,000 liters of suspected illegally stolen crude oil. Consequently, the boat and its illicit cargo were seized.
Lieutenant Commander Almustapha firmly reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to aggressively combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering within its operational area. He issued a strong warning to perpetrators, urging them to seek legitimate alternative livelihoods.
He also assured stakeholders in the maritime sector of the Navy’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of waterways for both maritime traffic and legitimate businesses operating within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
