Nigerian Navy smashes oil theft network, recovers 457,000 litres of stolen fuel

The Nigerian Navy says it has destroyed 22 illegal oil refining sites and recovered more than 457,000 litres of stolen crude oil and petroleum products between January and March 2026.

The operation, called Operation Delta Sentinel, took place in oil-producing areas such as Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom states.

It is aimed at stopping oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other illegal activities in the Niger Delta.

Key details of the operation:

22 illegal refining sites were shut down

98 suspects were arrested

Over 457,000 litres of stolen crude and refined products were recovered

98 illegal refining pits were destroyed

A vessel carrying 180 tons of diesel (AGO) was seized, and 8 people were arrested

Breakdown of recovered products:

204,650 litres of crude oil

106,150 litres of diesel

138,000 litres of petrol

8,000 litres of kerosene

700 litres of condensate

The Navy says illegal oil thieves are not just stealing crude oil but also refining it locally and selling fuels like petrol and diesel in nearby communities.

Officials say they will continue operations to stop oil theft and protect Nigeria’s oil resources.