The Nigerian Navy has announced the discovery and dismantling of an illegal oil refining site containing 750,000 litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (diesel) in Abonema Wharf, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The operation was carried out by officers and operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder, led by Commander Commodore Desmond Igbo on Tuesday, following a tip-off.
Commander Igbo described the illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft as acts of economic sabotage and emphasized the Navy’s determination to end such activities in their area of operation.
The raid revealed numerous drums and bags filled with illegally refined products, totaling 750,000 litres of AGO.
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He highlighted the dangers posed by the illegal refining site to residents and businesses in the area, emphasizing the environmental degradation and potential risks of fire outbreaks.
Commander Igbo reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Navy, under the mandate of Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, to combat crude oil theft and illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta region.
The confiscated products will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and follow-up action.
Commander Igbo urged those involved in illicit activities to desist and engage in legal businesses for their livelihood.
Despite ongoing efforts by security agencies, illegal oil mining remains prevalent in the state.
In a related incident in October 2023, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) apprehended 34 individuals for unauthorized mining activities in the Rumuokarali/Rumualogu community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State.
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