The Nigerian Navy has made a significant discovery in its fight against crude oil theft in Rivers State. On September 22, 2026, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny conducted a follow-up operation based on actionable information about suspicious activities around Bethel Creeks. The operation led to the uncovering of approximately 182,000 litres of substance suspected to be stolen crude oil. The discovery was made in eight dugout pits, five of which contained the suspected stolen crude oil, while the remaining three were empty.
The operation also led to the recovery of hoses believed to have been used for moving crude oil, which were handled in line with established procedures. This latest operation is a significant blow to those involved in crude oil theft in the area. According to the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was part of a fresh effort aimed at disrupting illegal crude oil storage and transfer activities in the area.
This is not the first time the Nigerian Navy has made a significant discovery in Rivers State. Barely two weeks prior, on September 8, the FOB Bonny uncovered approximately 87,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil at four newly activated illegal refining sites around Aworkiri. The earlier operation also uncovered 19 dugout pits and associated infrastructure, indicating attempts to establish facilities for the storage and handling of stolen crude oil.
The successive discoveries underscore the Navy’s efforts to disrupt not only the theft of crude oil but also the infrastructure used to store and move it. The Navy said the latest operation would further constrain the availability of crude oil and supporting infrastructure for illegal exploitation in the area. The Nigerian Navy has been working tirelessly to combat crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage in the region.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed that the operations were part of the Navy’s efforts to curb crude oil theft. The Navy has been working to identify and dismantle the networks involved in crude oil theft, as well as to bring those responsible to justice. The latest discovery is a significant achievement in this regard.
The Nigerian Navy’s operations in Rivers State have been yielding results, with several discoveries made in recent weeks. The Navy’s efforts have been focused on disrupting the activities of those involved in crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage. The latest discovery is a testament to the Navy’s commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources.
The Nigerian Navy has called for increased support and cooperation from the public in its efforts to combat crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage. The Navy has urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The latest discovery is a significant step in the fight against crude oil theft, and the Navy is expected to continue its efforts to protect the country’s natural resources.
Key points
- The Nigerian Navy has uncovered approximately 182,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in Rivers State.
- The operation was part of a fresh effort aimed at disrupting illegal crude oil storage and transfer activities in the area.
- The Navy has been working tirelessly to combat crude oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage in the region.
