Oil Theft: Shocks as Nigerian Navy Uncovers 15 Illegal Sites in Rivers State Refining 2.7million Litres Daily
In a noteworthy operation, the Nigerian Navy has uncovered a vast network of illegal oil refineries in the Ke community of Degema, Rivers State, marking a critical step in the government’s ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and economic sabotage.
Led by Commodore Desmond Igbo of the Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Port Harcourt, the operation exposed 15 substantial illegal refining sites, each equipped with sophisticated machinery capable of processing approximately 2.7 million litres of crude oil daily.
These illicit operations were discovered to possess six cooking pots and metal storage tanks at each site, with each tank holding up to 30,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
This revelation underscores the large scale at which these illegal refineries have been operating, contributing to significant economic losses for Nigeria, a country heavily reliant on crude oil for its revenue.
Commodore Igbo highlighted the determination of the Nigerian Navy to curb these unlawful activities, emphasizing the importance of this discovery in the broader fight against oil theft and the unauthorized sale of adulterated petroleum products.
“Such illicit activities not only rob the nation of vital resources but also pose severe environmental risks through the frequent vandalism of pipelines and wellheads, further increasing pollution and ecological damage.”
Despite the successful raid, the individuals operating these refineries managed to escape capture, fleeing the scene as naval forces approached.
However, the Nigerian Navy remains undeterred, committed to ongoing operations to dismantle these illegal sites.
In addition to direct action, there is a joint effort to engage with local communities, including sensitizing and dialoguing with youths, women, and community leaders to enlist their support in identifying and stopping those behind these criminal enterprises.
“This operation is a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to protect the nation’s economic interests and environmental health.
“By tackling the root of oil theft and illegal refining, the Navy is not only safeguarding Nigeria’s primary revenue source but also taking a stand against the environmental degradation that has plagued the region for too long.”
Meanwhile, the continuous efforts to engage with local communities further demonstrate an understanding approach, combining force with dialogue and education to achieve lasting solutions to this complex challenge.