– Nigerian Navy’s Anti-Bunkering Operations
– Illegal Oil Refining Sites in Ondo
– Crude Oil Theft in Nigeria
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered eight illegal bunkering sites in the Obe-Akinboye seaside community of Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. The operation, executed by personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, took place in the early hours of Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The raid was conducted following a robust intelligence network and the vigilance of naval personnel in combating maritime crime and economic sabotage within their area of operation.
Key Findings:
– Stolen Crude Oil: Approximately 50,000 litres of stolen crude oil were discovered across the eight illegal refining camps.
– Equipment Seized: The camps contained several storage tanks, reservoirs, three wooden boats used for transporting the stolen products, pumping machines, and discharge pipes.
– Perpetrators: Upon sighting the naval team, the perpetrators fled the area, abandoning the illegal sites.
Captain Aliyu Usman, the Commanding Officer of FOB Igbokoda, emphasized the Navy’s commitment to a zero-tolerance stance on maritime criminality and crude oil theft. He reiterated that the operation aligns with directives from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu-Ogalla, to ensure the safety and security of Nigeria’s waters and actively pursue those undermining the nation’s maritime resources.
This operation highlights the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal bunkering activities and safeguard the country’s oil resources.
