By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Navy has intercepted approximately 182,000 litres of substance suspected to be stolen crude oil in Bethel Creeks, Rivers State, in a fresh operation targeting illicit crude oil storage and transfer activities in the area.
According to an official statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the discovery was made by the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny on September 22, 2026, following actionable information on suspicious activities around the creeks.
The Navy said its personnel uncovered eight dugout pits during the operation, with five containing the suspected stolen crude oil while three were empty.
Hoses believed to be associated with the movement of crude oil were also discovered and handled in accordance with established procedures.
The latest operation came barely two weeks after FOB Bonny uncovered approximately 87,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil at four newly activated illegal refining sites around Aworkiri on September 8.
The earlier operation also led to the discovery of 19 dugout pits and associated infrastructure, which the Navy said indicated attempts to establish facilities for the storage and handling of stolen crude oil.
The Navy said the successive discoveries underscored its focus on denying criminal operators the infrastructure required to store and transfer stolen crude oil and preventing illicit activities from being re-established after previous disruptions.
It added that the latest operation had further constrained the availability of crude oil and supporting infrastructure for illegal exploitation within the area.
