Navy destroys 808 illegal refineries, arrest 86 vessels, 242 suspects in 2 years

The Nigerian Navy has released a comprehensive report detailing its efforts to combat oil theft in the Niger Delta region. The report is contained in the programme of event that was issued at the sailing out ceremony organized in honour of the immediate past Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala Rtd, in […]

The Nigerian Navy has released a comprehensive report detailing its efforts to combat oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

The report is contained in the programme of event that was issued at the sailing out ceremony organized in honour of the immediate past Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala Rtd, in Lagos at the weekend.

The programme chronicled the two years stewardship of the immediate past CNS, highlighting efforts made at combating crude oil theft in the oil rich Niger Delta.

The Navy’s intensified crackdown on oil theft is part of its broader strategy to protect the country’s oil and gas resources, reduce environmental pollution, and promote economic stability.

The destruction of 808 illegal refineries highlights the Navy’s efforts to disrupt and dismantle the infrastructure supporting oil theft.

The Navy insisted that these illegal refineries, which are often located in remote and hard-to-reach areas, have been responsible for the theft and illegal refining of millions of barrels of crude oil.

In addition to the destruction of illegal refineries, the Navy says it has destroyed 2,411 Dugout pits and 5,421 storage facilities belonging to those it referred to as economic saboteurs.

It was revealed that the 86 vessels arrested were involved in oil theft and related crimes.

These vessels, which include tanker trucks, barges, and speedboats, have been used to transport stolen crude oil to illegal refineries and export it to international markets.

It was stated that the apprehension of 242 suspects is also a significant achievement, as it brings those responsible for oil theft to justice and serves as a deterrent to others.

Some of the suspects, who include oil thieves, illegal refiners, and their accomplices, are facing different stages of prosecution and punishment in accordance with the law.

Addressing troops at the NNS QUORA Parade ground in Lagos, Vice Admiral Ogala stated the event marked the conclusion of a defining chapter of his life, which he said has been his years of service in the Nigerian Navy.

“As every sailor knows, no matter how long the voyage, there must come a time to return to shore. This ceremony is not just a formal farewell, but a symbolic mark after a long and fulfilling journey that began as a young cadet with a dream to serve my nation, our nation, and which culminates today as I finally hung up the uniform I wore so proudly.

“I express my profound gratitude to the Almighty God for preserving my life and granting me the grace to complete this career honorably. It is on this note that we remember with full respect our colleagues who paid the supreme sacrifices in this noble profession of arms over the period of our service. Their courage and dedication remain etched in history.

“Our nation is indeed blessed with a Navy that continues to demonstrate exceptional competence, courage, and commitment in protecting our maritime interests and safeguarding our national security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. These admirable values are the reason the Navy remains a symbol of regional security and a symbol of Nigerian presence in the maritime environment, not only within the Nigerian Maritime Area of Interest, but in the entire Gulf of Guinea and the globe as a whole.

“On my version of office as the Chief of the Naval Staff, I was actively aware of the weight of the legacy I was inheriting. I stepped into the shoes of visionary leaders who preceded me, and through their dedication and strategic foresight, built the Nigerian Navy into a reputable force we have today. I therefore remain grateful to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the President President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the immense confidence and support which he reposed in me to lead the Nigerian Navy” he said