The Nigerian Navy has intensified its crackdown on illegal refining networks in Rivers State, disrupting two illegal refining sites and recovering approximately 33,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, AGO.
The operation was conducted on 6 September 2026 by personnel of NNS PATHFINDER in Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.
According to a statement by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, the team uncovered 8 dugout pits, sacks and reservoirs associated with the illegal refining activities. The sites and recovered products were subsequently handled in line with established procedures.
No arrest was made as suspected operators fled before the arrival of the naval team.
Folorunsho said the latest action is significant against the backdrop of repeated attempts to revive illegal refining in the area.
He noted that following earlier interventions, including the disruption of 2 illegal refining sites on 28 August 2026, continued naval pressure is constraining the ability of operators to re-establish and sustain illicit refining activities.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to denying criminal elements the infrastructure needed to operate and to protecting the nation’s oil and gas assets.
