By Adeyanju Esther
The Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Delta, recently uncovered two illegal refining sites suspected of processing stolen crude oil in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Led by Navy Commander Patrick Ali on Monday, representing Commodore Abba Muhsin, the naval operation took place in the coastal communities of Ajasolor and Ogbukoko.
During the operation, significant evidence was seized, including 45,000 litres of illicitly refined products,
https://nigeriannewsdirect.com/osun-naseni-trains-youths-on-modern-shoemaking-tailoring/along with five metallic storage tanks, four ovens, and five dugout pits.
A suspect was apprehended in possession of a wooden boat, highlighting the active involvement in illegal activities in the area.
The discovery was part of the Navy’s broader initiative under Operation Delta Sanity, aimed at combating crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and securing maritime assets.
Commander Ali emphasised the strategic importance of these actions in enhancing the safety and security of the Delta region:
“This is one of the series of actions in keeping Delta safe and secured.”
Addressing environmental concerns, Commander Ali assured that due process would be followed in handling the uncovered sites, underscoring the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to environmental stewardship: “The Navy is environmentally friendly; we will follow due process.”
He noted instances of environmental degradation caused by criminal activities, such as setting dugout pits on fire, emphasising the Navy’s responsible approach despite such challenges.
Ali issued a stern warning to perpetrators, urging oil thieves and other criminals operating in the maritime domain to cease their activities or face legal consequences: “Oil thieves and other criminals in the maritime space must desist or face the full wrath of the law.”
He expressed gratitude to the collaborative efforts of various agencies and individuals supporting NNS Delta’s endeavours.
He, however, thanked all the agencies and individuals that had supported the efforts of the NNS Delta in achieving the feats.