Nigerian Navy Destroys Four Illegal Refineries in Delta as Crackdown on Oil Theft Intensifies

 In a renewed effort to curb oil theft and environmental destruction in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Navy has launched a major operation leading to the destruction of four illegal refineries operating in Delta State. The operation, carried out by the Navy’s special anti-bunkering team, was aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in the illegal refining of stolen crude oil.

According to naval officials, the illegal refineries were located deep within the creeks and were responsible for significant oil losses and environmental pollution. The illegal refining process, which involves the crude extraction of petroleum products, has led to massive degradation of farmlands and water bodies in the region.

“Our intelligence team has been tracking these illegal refineries for weeks, and we are determined to put an end to these activities,” said Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, a senior naval official. “This operation is part of our broader strategy to eradicate crude oil theft, which has been a major economic and environmental challenge for Nigeria.”

The destruction of these refineries is expected to disrupt the operations of oil thieves who have been exploiting Nigeria’s porous waterways to engage in illicit oil trade. The Nigerian government has repeatedly warned that oil theft is costing the country billions of naira in lost revenue, and security agencies have been tasked with intensifying operations against these criminal elements.

Community leaders in Delta State have welcomed the operation but have also urged the government to provide alternative economic opportunities for local youth who may be tempted to engage in illegal refining due to unemployment. They argue that a sustainable solution to oil theft must include job creation, skills development, and investment in legitimate industries.