Navy Uncovers Illegal Refinery with 2.7 Million Litre Capacity in Rivers State
The Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, has made a significant discovery in Bokokiri, Ke community, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, uncovering 15 illegal refining camps, each comprising six refineries. These clandestine operations possessed the capability to refine an astonishing 2.7 million liters of crude oil.
Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, disclosed that each camp contained six cooking pots and ovens, collectively holding over 33,000 liters of crude oil products.
These illegal refineries were strategically situated deep within the creeks, making detection challenging. They utilized pipes to siphon crude oil from wellheads located several kilometers inside the mangrove swamps.
The operation to dismantle these illegal refineries was conducted as part of Operation Delta Sanity, an initiative aimed at curbing economic sabotage, as directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. Commodore Igbo stressed the detrimental impact of such illicit activities on Nigeria’s economy, underscoring the necessity to eradicate oil theft.
Although no arrests were made at the 15 illegal refining camps, NNS Pathfinder had previously apprehended individuals involved in similar operations and handed them over to prosecuting agencies.
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Apart from utilizing kinetic methods to combat oil theft, the Navy has also employed non-kinetic approaches, including community engagement and sensitization efforts aimed at educating locals on the consequences of economic sabotage.
This discovery highlights the ongoing struggle against illegal refining activities in the region and reaffirms the Navy’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s natural resources and revenue streams.
