The Nigerian Navy says its personnel have uncovered eight illegal bunkering sites in the Obe-Akinboye seaside community under the Ilaje LGA of Ondo state.
Aliyu Usman, commanding officer of the base, who addressed journalists on Tuesday, said the operation was carried out by personnel of the forward operating base (FOB) Igbokoda.
Usman said the discovery was made possible through a “strong intelligence network” and the vigilance of naval personnel.
He said the action was part of ongoing efforts to tackle maritime crime, illegality, and economic sabotage in the area of operation.
“Once intelligence was received about the illegal refining camps, the base’s quick response team stationed at a nearby naval security outpost was immediately mobilised to conduct the raid,” he said.
“The perpetrators fled the area upon sighting the naval assault team, abandoning the illegal sites.
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“Upon inspection, the team uncovered eight illegal refining camps containing several storage tanks and reservoirs filled with an estimated 50,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
“In addition, the camps were equipped with crude oil theft-related equipment, including three wooden boats used to convey the stolen products, pumping machines, and discharge pipes.
“The eight illegal refining sites and associated items were handled in accordance with extant directives from Defence Headquarters.”
The commanding officer cautioned offenders and economic disruptors in coastal areas to stop their actions, adding that the navy remains firmly opposed to oil-related crimes.
He added that the operation aligns with the directive of Emmanuel Ogalla, the chief of the naval staff, for naval bases to secure Nigeria’s waters and pursue those undermining the country’s maritime resources.
