By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Navy has recorded fresh operational gains against oil theft, illegal refining and drug trafficking in the Niger Delta, uncovering approximately 114,500 litres of petroleum products suspected to be linked to crude oil theft and illegal refining in Rivers State and arresting 10 suspects during anti-drug raids in Delta State.
The operations, conducted under Operation Delta Sentinel, involved personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH and NNS DELTA in separate intelligence-led missions aimed at disrupting criminal networks and protecting national assets.
According to an official statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, personnel of NNS SOROH, acting on credible intelligence on October 15, 2026, discovered a suspected illegal refining site in Orashi Forest, Ogbogolo community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The site contained five large dugout pits holding approximately 105,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, and 18 smaller pits containing about 9,500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
The statement disclosed that the suspected operators fled upon sighting the naval personnel, while the petroleum products were handled in accordance with established procedures.
In a related operation, personnel of NNS DELTA, working in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), raided locations suspected of being used for the storage, sale and distribution of illicit drugs across parts of Delta State between October 14 and 15.
The raids covered Uvwie, Eboh Road, Jakpa Road, Ozuaka community, Orogun, Otokutu and Ughelli, leading to the arrest of 10 suspects.
The Navy said substances suspected to include cocaine, methamphetamine, tramadol, cannabis, cannabis seeds, Colorado and other related exhibits were recovered during the operation.
It added that the suspects and recovered exhibits had been handed over to the NDLEA Warri Area Command for further investigation and necessary legal action.
The Navy noted that oil theft, illegal refining and illicit drug distribution posed distinct security challenges, with the latter also contributing to criminal activities across affected communities.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and strengthening inter-agency cooperation to dismantle illegal refining infrastructure, disrupt illicit supply networks and bring suspected offenders to justice.
The Navy said the operations formed part of its ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s petroleum resources, combat criminal activities and enhance security across its areas of responsibility in the Niger Delta.
