The Nigerian Navy has intercepted a large quantity of suspected stolen crude oil during an anti-bunkering operation in Rivers State.
In a statement on Friday, naval authorities said operatives recovered about 24,000 litres of the product from illegal storage facilities and boats in the state. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.
Officials explained that the raid followed credible intelligence on the activities of oil thieves operating in riverine communities. Troops moved in and dismantled the sites being used to store and transport the stolen crude.
No arrests were immediately confirmed, but the Navy said investigations are underway to track those behind the illegal operation. The recovered product has been handled in line with standard procedures for evidence and disposal.The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime environment and critical oil infrastructure. It also urged residents to provide useful information that can help in dismantling more illegal bunkering networks in the region.
