The Nigerian Navy has uncovered an estimated 132,000 litres of substance suspected to be stolen crude oil in Allison community, Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho in an operational report on Friday, said that the recovery disrupted a potential storage point within the illicit petroleum supply chain.
He revealed that the discovery was made on Oct. 22 by Forward Operating Base BONNY under Operation DELTA SENTINEL following actionable intelligence.
According to him, 10 dugout pits were uncovered during the operation.
He also disclosed that the site and recovered products were handled in accordance with extant regulations.
Folorunsho said the operation reinforced the importance of intelligence-led action in identifying concealed petroleum stockpiles and disrupting the infrastructure that enabled crude oil theft and the unauthorised movement of petroleum products.
He assured Nigerians that the service will sustain efforts to locate and dismantle illegal refining infrastructure and disrupt the networks facilitating crude oil theft across the Niger Delta.
He called on community leaders, residents, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to promptly report any crude oil theft, illegal refining, suspicious petroleum storage, and unauthorised movement of petroleum products to the nearest security agency.
“Timely credible information can enable swift intervention and prevent illicit activities from expanding.
“Safeguarding the nation’s critical petroleum assets require vigilance and active cooperation between security agencies and the communities they serve.
“The Navy, therefore, is urging the public to remain alert and support lawful efforts to protect the national resources,” he said.
