14 May 2013, Port Harcourt – The Nigerian Navy in Port Harcourt said it had discovered and destroyed eight illegal crude oil refineries and arrested two suspected oil thieves.
The navy gave the information in a statement signed by Lt. Abdulsalam Sani, Spokesman for the Navy Ship Pathfinder, Port Harcourt.
It stated that eight illegal refineries, a large metal barge and one Cotonou boat were destroyed in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area.
The statement said two suspects arrested were currently being interrogated to unravel their sponsors.
“As part of renewed efforts to eliminate illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism in the region; the navy will continue to show its presence in the creeks all round the clock.
“We advise all those involved in oil theft to seek legitimate employment rather than sabotage the nation’s economy through illegal oil bunkering activities,” it said.
It said members of the public should report anyone involved in oil theft and pipeline vandalism to security agencies in the state.
