On Saturday, March 22, 2026, the Nigerian Navy intercepted approximately 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and arrested eight suspects in Rivers State.
The development was disclosed on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho. He said the operation was conducted under Operation DELTA SENTINEL by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER along the Degema/Ogbogoro/Ogbologo axis.
According to Folorunsho, the naval patrol team, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted two wooden boats carrying suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). The operation also led to the arrest of eight individuals linked to the illegal activity, while some armed accomplices fled 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 stated.
Folorunsho emphasized that the operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, which mandates intensified actions against crude oil theft and maritime crimes. He added that the Navy would continue to sustain the tempo of Operation DELTA SENTINEL through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced patrols, and inter-agency collaboration.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting critical national assets.
