Navy intercepts illegally refined petroleum products, arrests eight suspects

The Nigerian Navy has seized approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and apprehended eight suspects in Rivers State.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho.

Folorunsho stated that the operation was carried out under Operation DELTA SENTINEL by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER in the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo axis.

He explained that acting on credible intelligence, the naval patrol team intercepted two wooden boats loaded with suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

According to him, eight individuals connected to the illegal activity were arrested during the operation, while some armed accomplices escaped upon sighting the patrol team.

“The arrested suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution,” he said.

Folorunsho added that the operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, which mandates intensified efforts against crude oil theft and other maritime crimes.

He further noted that the Navy will continue to sustain the momentum of Operation DELTA SENTINEL through intelligence-led operations, increased patrols, and stronger inter-agency collaboration.

The spokesperson also reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and safeguarding critical national assets.

NAN