The Nigerian Navy has thwarted another attempt by suspected illegal refiners to resume operations in Egbema-Ndoni, Rivers State, recovering about 33,000 litres of products believed to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
The latest crackdown, carried out on Sunday, September 6, 2026, came just days after naval operatives dismantled two illegal refining sites in the same area on August 28, underscoring persistent efforts by suspected oil thieves to return to previously raided locations.
During the operation along Ndoni Community Road, naval personnel destroyed two illegal refining sites and uncovered eight dug-out pits, sacks and reservoirs used for the illicit business. They also recovered approximately 33,000 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO.
The operation highlights the continuing battle between security agencies and illegal refiners, who have repeatedly attempted to revive their activities despite sustained military crackdowns.
Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to deny economic saboteurs the opportunity to re-establish illegal refining camps in the region.
He disclosed that the suspected operators fled the area before the arrival of the naval team, leaving no suspects to be arrested during the raid.
Photographs released after the operation showed dark liquid suspected to be AGO stored in polythene-lined pits, with visible oil stains around the illegal refining sites. GPS coordinates attached to the images indicated a location within Ohaji/Egbema in Imo State, although the Navy maintained that the operation was conducted in Egbema-Ndoni, Rivers State.
According to the Navy, the recovered products and destroyed facilities were handled in accordance with established operational procedures.
The latest success reinforces the Navy’s sustained campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta, where security agencies continue to target criminal networks responsible for environmental degradation and economic losses.