The Nigerian Navy, through Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER, has uncovered three illegal refining sites at Obuama Community in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, recovering approximately 105,000 litres of products suspected to be stolen crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The operation, conducted on 31 October 2026, followed credible intelligence on crude oil theft and illegal bunkering activities within the area.
According to the Navy, the naval team discovered seven dugout pits, storage containers and sacks containing approximately 73,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil and 32,000 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO.
The three illegal refining sites and the products were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures. No arrests were made as the suspected operators fled before the arrival of the naval team.
The operation reinforces the Nigerian Navy’s sustained efforts to dismantle illegal refining networks, disrupt crude oil theft and protect critical oil and gas infrastructure.
The Service said it remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s petroleum resources and supporting national efforts to enhance oil production and economic security.
