The Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos of the Nigerian Navy has deactivated six illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino Community in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Navy Capt. Ikenna Okoloagu, Commanding Officer of FOB Escravos, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Warri.
He said the operations, conducted between Oct. 2 and Oct. 6, led to the seizure of approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude oil.
“The FOB Escravos has deactivated six illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino Community and seized approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude in a series of coordinated operations,” he stated.
Okoloagu said the illicit products were discovered in 28 dugout pits and six polythene sacks, adding that a pumping machine was also recovered during the raids.
He explained that the operations formed part of the ongoing Operation DELTA SANITY II and were based on credible intelligence.
According to him, the exercise was in line with the strategic directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, to curb illegalities within the nation’s maritime environment.
Okoloagu reaffirmed the Navy’s resolve to protect national oil assets and maintain maritime security against economic sabotage.
(NAN)