- Nigerian Navy reports success in Niger Delta operations, seizing stolen crude oil valued at approximately $5.218 million
- Confiscations include 557,580 liters of illegally refined Automatic Gas Oil (AGO) worth N497 million, among other seized items
The Nigerian Navy reports significant successes in its operations throughout the Niger Delta region from January to February 2024, resulting in the apprehension and retrieval of stolen crude oil from various criminal factions in the area.
During this period, authorities confiscated 60,815.77 barrels of crude oil, estimated at approximately $5.218 million (N8.12 billion), alongside 557,580 liters of illegally refined Automatic Gas Oil (AGO) valued at N497 million. Additionally, seizures included Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK) worth N5.5 million and 9,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) valued at N5.490 million.
According to Rear Admiral AO Ayo-Vaughan, the Nigerian Navy’s Director of Information, these operations prevented potential losses amounting to N8.6 billion, thwarting activities detrimental to national security and prosperity.
A detailed breakdown of the arrests and seizures during the specified period reveals the apprehension of 51 wooden boats and the destruction of 105 illegal refining ovens, 85 reservoirs, and 288 dugout pits.
Moreover, authorities demolished 41 Illegal Refining Sites (IRS) and three fibre boats in a concerted effort to curtail illicit activities and safeguard the nation’s resources and interests.