The Nigerian Navy has announced the successful busting of an illegal oil refining site containing 750,000 liters of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (diesel) at Abonema Wharf in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The discovery was made during a raid conducted by officers and operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship, Pathfinder, led by Commander Commodore Desmond Igbo on Tuesday.
Acting on a tip-off, the Navy destroyed the site and seized the illegally refined diesel.
Commander Igbo emphasized the Navy’s commitment to ending illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta and across the nation.
He described these activities as acts of economic sabotage and expressed determination to eradicate them within their area of operation.
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He highlighted the significant quantity of diesel discovered at the illegal refining site and underscored the environmental and safety hazards posed by such activities to the residents and businesses in the area.
Commander Igbo reiterated the mandate given by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, to combat crude oil theft effectively.
He warned against engaging in illicit activities and encouraged individuals to pursue legal means of livelihood.
The confiscated products will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary action.
Despite efforts by security agencies, Rivers State remains a hotspot for illegal oil mining activities.
In October 2023, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) apprehended 34 individuals involved in unauthorized mining activities in the Rumuokarali/Rumualogu community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in the state.
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