The Nigerian Navy has intercepted a substantial cache of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Rivers State, seizing approximately 22,870 litres during an intelligence-led operation under Operation DELTA SENTINEL.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, Director of Naval Information Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho disclosed that operatives from NNS SOROH, deployed to the Orashi Forest area of Okolomade Community in Abua/Odual Local Government Area, acted on credible intelligence regarding illicit fuel movement through creek channels bordering Bayelsa State’s Ogbia LGA.
The patrol team initially intercepted a wooden boat carrying 36 sacks of suspected illegally refined AGO along an adjoining creek. Exploiting the intelligence further, a drone-assisted aerial sweep uncovered additional stockpiles concealed beneath vegetation and submerged in ponds within the vicinity. This subsequent search yielded another 45 sacks, bringing the total recovery to 81 sacks, collectively holding roughly 22,870 litres.
The Navy confirmed that both the contraband and the intercepted wooden boat have been handled per established anti-crude-theft protocols, effectively disrupting the logistical networks supporting illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta.
Reaffirming the service’s commitment to sustaining robust, intelligence-driven patrols, Capt. Folorunsho reiterated the Navy’s resolve to dismantle oil theft syndicates, deny criminals freedom of action on the nation’s waterways, and safeguard Nigeria’s strategic economic assets.