By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Nigerian Navy says it has recovered approximately 105,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil in Delta State as part of ongoing operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the recoveries were made within the Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS DELTA, Area of Operation following intelligence-led raids.
According to the statement, troops discovered concealed storage facilities used by suspected economic saboteurs for stockpiling crude oil in the Oteghele axis of Delta State.
“During the operations, a total of 60,000 litres and 45,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil were discovered at separate locations,” Folorunsho said.
He noted that the latest recoveries highlight both the persistence of crude oil theft networks and the Navy’s resolve to dismantle their infrastructure.
“The recoveries underscore the persistence of criminal elements involved in crude oil theft as well as the Nigerian Navy’s determination to deny them the resources and infrastructure required to sustain their illicit activities,” he stated.
The Navy said Operation DELTA SENTINEL is part of sustained efforts to disrupt crude oil theft and illegal bunkering, protect critical oil and gas assets, and prevent economic losses to the nation.
“The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and energy infrastructure through sustained operations aimed at combating economic sabotage, enhancing national security and supporting the nation’s economic well-being,” the statement added.
No arrests were announced in the statement.
