Fresh Operation In Bonny Uncovers Hidden Illegal Refining Camps
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered and dismantled another illegal refining operation in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State as part of ongoing efforts under Operation Delta Sentinel to tackle crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Naval Information, Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation was carried out by personnel attached to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny following intelligence reports concerning suspicious activities around the Promise Land area of Bonny.
The Navy disclosed that an Anti-Crude Oil Theft patrol team immediately launched a coordinated reconnaissance mission across surrounding waterways and creeks after receiving the intelligence.
During the operation, aerial surveillance reportedly detected hidden refining equipment concealed beneath thick vegetation within the area.
Ground troops later confirmed the discovery of two newly established illegal refining camps strategically located close to the river channel.
According to the Navy, the sites contained locally fabricated cooking pots, connected pipelines, and other structures allegedly intended for refining and transporting stolen petroleum products.
Further findings reportedly showed that operators of the camps were still in the process of setting up the facilities and had not fully commenced refining activities before security operatives disrupted the operation.
The illegal refining sites were subsequently dismantled in line with operational procedures, while security surveillance around the area has reportedly been intensified to prevent future illegal activities.
The Nigerian Navy stated that the operation reflects its continued strategy of targeting illegal refining infrastructure before criminal networks fully establish operations in the region.
The Navy also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at protecting critical national assets and curbing crude oil theft across the Niger Delta.
