Operation Delta Sanity: Nigerian Navy’s Tireless Effort Against Oil Theft
In the ongoing battle against crude oil theft in Nigeria’s maritime environment, Operation Delta Sanity led by the Nigerian Navy continues to make significant strides. From January 29th to February 4th, 2024, the navy intensified its efforts, resulting in several successful operations across various states.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Navy Spearheads Collaborative Effort to Tackle Maritime Threats
This was contained in a press statement signed and made available to newsmen in Abuja by Rear Admiral AO Ayo-Vaughan, Director of Information Naval,
The statement said that the multiple naval platforms conducted aggressive patrols, targeting illegal refining sites (IRS), metal storage tanks, ovens, wooden boats, and pumping machines used by oil thieves.
“In Rivers State, on January 29th, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER intercepted six wooden boats laden with suspected stolen Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and crude oil barrels. Similar operations were carried out in Bayelsa, Delta, and Imo States, uncovering illegal refining sites and apprehending suspects.
“One notable discovery was the vandalized flowline station belonging to Shell Petroleum Development Company found by NNS SOROH in Bayelsa State. Additionally, aerial surveillance conducted by Naval Flying Unit, Port Harcourt, identified numerous illegal refining sites and wooden boats laden with illegally refined AGO.
“Overall, the operation resulted in the deactivation of four IRS, dismantling of five ovens, and seizure of 12 wooden boats. Oil thieves were denied access to approximately 1,277.9 barrels of crude oil and 19,600 liters of illegally refined AGO, amounting to significant financial losses.
“Since its inception, Operation Delta Sanity has prevented the loss of over 4,036.7 barrels of crude oil and 270,600 liters of illegally refined AGO, valued at billions of Naira.
Furthermore, the navy has arrested 40 wooden boats and deactivated 19 illegal refining sites, contributing to the ongoing fight against oil theft and safeguarding national security and prosperity.
Operation Delta Sanity: Nigerian Navy’s Tireless Effort Against Oil Theft