The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Brass, Bayelsa, has conducted a successful operation targeting illegal refinery sites and seized stolen crude oil as part of the ongoing Nigerian Navy Operation Delta Sanity. Commanding Officer Capt. Murtala Aminu Rogo announced the destruction of three illegal refinery sites and a wooden boat, along with the confiscation of 160,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil.

The operation, aimed at combating illegal oil theft and bunkering in the Niger-Delta region, resulted in the interception and destruction of illegal activities following patrols conducted by Navy personnel along the Brass River and Akassa general area.

During the patrols, two illegal refinery sites were discovered, along with approximately 85,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil and a pumping machine. Additionally, a third illegal refinery site and a large wooden boat laden with about 75,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil were located around Tuluama, Brass LGA.

The Nigerian Navy swiftly handled the discovered illegal refinery sites and seized boat, marking a significant achievement in the ongoing efforts to curtail criminal activities related to oil theft and bunkering in the region.

Further investigations into the criminal networks associated with the illegal refining sites are underway, underscoring the Navy’s commitment to dismantling these operations and ensuring maritime security.

Commanding Officer Rogo emphasized the importance of public cooperation in providing relevant information to aid ongoing efforts in combating illegal activities and dismantling criminal networks involved in oil theft and bunkering.

Operation Delta Sanity, led by Rear Adm. S. J. Bura, is part of the Nigerian Navy’s broader mission to tackle crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and other criminal activities within Nigerian waters, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to maintaining maritime security and safety under the leadership of Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). The Navy reaffirms its dedication to creating a conducive environment for legitimate businesses to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic progress.