
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a sweeping offensive against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, the Nigerian Navy’s Operation Delta Sanity has arrested 12 suspects, dismantled four illegal refinery sites, and foiled a planned attack on a major oil facility in coordinated operations across Bayelsa, Delta, and Anambra states.
According to Commodore A. Adams-Aliuu, Director of Naval Information, the series of operations conducted between April 20 and 22 demonstrate the Navy’s reinvigorated strategy to curb oil theft and protect critical national assets under the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
“These operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s resolve to rid the maritime domain of crude oil thieves and other nefarious elements.
“One of the most significant breakthroughs came on April 22 when Naval Outpost Onitsha apprehended two armed suspects in Oguikpele Community, Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State. The suspects, found with a locally made rifle and ten machetes, were allegedly preparing to attack a SEEPCO oil facility.
“Investigation revealed that these suspects were involved in the gruesome killing of three soldiers on June 11, 2024,” Commodore Adams-Aliuu disclosed, adding that their arrest marks a major step toward bringing the perpetrators of last year’s deadly ambush to justice.
On the same day, operatives of Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA discovered and dismantled two illegal refinery sites in Bernnet Island and Obodo Omadino Community, Warri South-West LGA, Delta State. The sites contained nine dugout pits and were stocked with sacks and drums of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and stolen crude.
“These illegal refineries were sophisticated and embedded deep within the creeks, but our men were able to neutralize them without incident,” the Navy spokesman said.
“In Bayelsa State, on April 21, operatives from Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH intercepted two vehicles in Olodo Community carrying sacks of illegally refined petroleum products. Meanwhile, in Delta State, additional suspects were arrested at illicit refining sites, further expanding the Navy’s net.
“The Navy also seized several tools and logistics used by the oil thieves, effectively crippling operations that have long undermined Nigeria’s oil economy.”
Commodore Adams-Aliuu called on communities in the Niger Delta to support the Navy’s efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
“We urge citizens to be vigilant and cooperative. Together, we can safeguard our natural resources and ensure peace and prosperity for our communities.”
Operation Delta Sanity is part of the Navy’s broader campaign to dismantle oil theft networks and restore confidence in Nigeria’s ability to secure its oil and gas assets.