By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Nigerian Navy has recorded significant operational outcomes in Rivers and Delta States, uncovering about 114,500 litres of petroleum products suspected to be linked to crude oil theft and illegal refining in Rivers, while arresting 10 suspects in a joint anti-illicit drug operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Delta.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho.
The statement said on 15th October, 2026, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH, acting on credible intelligence, discovered a suspected illegal refining site in Orashi Forest, Ogbogolo community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The site contained five large dugout pits holding approximately 105,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, and 18 smaller pits containing about 9,500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.
According to the Navy, the suspected operators fled upon sighting the naval personnel, and the products were handled in accordance with established procedures.
In a separate operation conducted from 14th to 15th October, 2026, NNS DELTA and NDLEA raided locations suspected to be used for storage, sale and distribution of illicit drugs in Uvwie, Eboh Road, Jakpa Road, Ozuaka community, Orogun, Otokutu and Ughelli.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 10 suspects and recovery of substances suspected to include cocaine, methamphetamine, tramadol, cannabis, cannabis seeds, Colorado and other related exhibits.
The suspects and exhibits were handed over to the NDLEA Warri Area Command for further investigation and prosecution.
The Navy said the operations address two distinct threats to national security: theft and illegal processing of petroleum resources, and distribution of illicit drugs that fuel criminal activity.
It assured that it would sustain intelligence-led operations and inter-agency cooperation to dismantle illegal refining infrastructure and disrupt illicit supply networks.
