Nigerian Navy Uncovers Suspected Illegal Refining Sites In Rivers State
By Ifeanyi Wilson
The Nigerian Navy has uncovered three suspected illegal refining sites containing approximately Ninety-eight thousand litres of petroleum products in Okarki Community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Director Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the operation by Nigerian Navy Shi PATHFINDER led to the discovery of about sixty -five thousand litres of suspected stolen crude oil and thirty-three thousand litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil stored in approximately twelve dug-out pits and containers.
Navy Captain Folorunsho said no arrest was made, as the suspected operators fled before the naval team arrived the sites and the products were handled in accordance with established procedures. He said the discovery highlights the scale of illicit petroleum storage in the area and the risk of the products entering unlawful distribution channels.
He further stated that by disrupting storage at three locations, the operation denied suspected operators access to a substantial volume of petroleum products for illegal handling and sale.
He added that the Nigerian Navy will sustain intelligence-led patrols and operations to identify illegal refining facilities, disrupt the storage and movement of suspected stolen petroleum products, and support efforts to bring those responsible to justice in accordance with the law.
