The Nigerian Navy has recorded significant gains in its ongoing crackdown on crude oil theft, announcing the destruction of 22 illegal refining sites and the recovery of 457,000 litres of stolen petroleum products in the first quarter of 2026.

According to the Navy, the operations were carried out across identified hotspots in the Niger Delta region as part of intensified maritime security and anti-bunkering efforts.

The service stated that the coordinated missions led to the dismantling of illegal refining camps, the seizure of equipment used in crude oil processing, and the disruption of supply chains linked to oil theft.

It further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and protecting national assets from economic sabotage, noting that the sustained operations have contributed to reducing illegal refining activities in affected areas.

The Nigerian Navy also assured that it will continue to work with other security agencies to ensure that perpetrators of oil theft are tracked, arrested, and prosecuted.