The Nigerian Navy has dismantled five illegal refining sites in the Bukuma area of Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. The operation, executed by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, uncovered extensive networks of illicit oil processing infrastructure hidden deep within the region’s mangrove swamps.
This large-scale discovery followed intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering in the area. The operation exposed a complex network of artisanal refineries constructed deep within inaccessible terrain to evade detection.
These makeshift facilities included large metal cooking pots, dug-out pits, and hidden surface tanks used to syphon and process stolen crude oil into diesel and kerosene.
The environmental impacts of these operations run deep. Illegal refining often results in widespread oil spills, destruction of vegetation, and contamination of rivers and farmlands, with long-term consequences for biodiversity and human life.
To mitigate further damage, the navy dismantled the sites in compliance with environmental safety protocols, setting fire to the equipment to prevent further use.
Aniaku noted that the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, remains committed to combating crude oil theft and illegal bunkering activities, which pose significant threats to the nation’s economy and energy security.
The impact of crude oil theft on Nigeria’s economy is staggering. “It is estimated that Nigeria loses over 300,000 barrels of crude oil daily to oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other forms of criminality. This has led to revenue losses estimated at N1.29 trillion annually,” said the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, in 2024.
To address this crisis, the Speaker inaugurated a Special Committee on Crude Oil Theft Losses in November 2023, tasked with recommending lasting solutions. “I commend the Nigerian Navy on the steps taken so far, and I urge the Navy to sustain the momentum,” he added.
The Degema operation is part of the broader Operation Delta Safe, a military campaign targeting economic saboteurs across the Niger Delta. These missions involve aerial reconnaissance, increased maritime patrols, and collaboration with local informants.
Despite these efforts, illegal refining remains widespread in Rivers and other oil-rich states, driven by high unemployment and economic desperation. Security experts have long argued for a more integrated approach that combines enforcement with local empowerment, particularly through the establishment of modular refineries and community surveillance programmes.
While no suspects were arrested during the recent operation, the Navy confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators and supply chains involved. Officers encountered no resistance during the raid, as operators abandoned the site and fled.
As the federal government pursues more lasting solutions, the navy is calling for stronger inter-agency collaboration and deeper community engagement. Officials stress that continued success in curbing oil theft will depend on real-time intelligence and public support.
The Nigerian Navy has dismantled five illegal oil refining sites in the Bukuma area of Degema Local Government Area, Rivers State. These operations, executed by the Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder, revealed extensive networks of unauthorized oil processing infrastructure hidden deep within mangrove swamps. The sites included makeshift facilities with large metal cooking pots, dug-out pits, and hidden tanks used to process stolen crude oil into diesel and kerosene, causing severe environmental damage.
The massive illicit operation contributes to significant economic losses for Nigeria, with an estimated daily loss of over 300,000 barrels of crude oil, equating to an annual revenue loss of N1.29 trillion. The Nigerian Navy, supported by intelligence and collaboration with local communities, appreciates the government's call for a lasting solution, incorporating enhanced enforcement, local empowerment, and the establishment of modular refineries.
Operation Delta Safe, a military campaign targeting economic saboteurs, guides these missions, although challenges persist due to widespread illegal refining, high unemployment, and economic desperation. While no arrests were made, investigations continue to identify those involved in these criminal activities. The Navy has emphasized the importance of real-time intelligence, community cooperation, and inter-agency collaboration to effectively curb oil theft.
