Emmanuel Ochayi
The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda has taken decisive action against illegal refineries in the Obenla community, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. On January 6, 2025, naval operatives dismantled nine illegal refining sites, destroying 20,000 litres of crude oil and 15,000 litres of illegally refined diesel.
This operation was part of the ongoing efforts by the Navy to curb crude oil theft and illegal refining activities across the country.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelOperation on illegal refineries Based on Credible Intelligence
Navy Captain Aliyu Usman, Commander of the FOB, revealed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence. He stated that the illegal refining sites were located within the Obenla sea area, and the operation aimed to disrupt the activities of those involved in the illegal trade.
“In continuation with the efforts of the Nigerian Navy to stop all acts of crude oil theft and illegal refining within the Nigerian environment, the Forward Operating Base, Igbokoda, stormed into a farmhouse of illegal refining camp within Obenla community, where we discovered about nine illegal refining sites within the Obenla sea sites,” Usman said.
Suspects Flee the Scene during destruction of illegal refineries
The suspects managed to escape before the arrival of the naval operatives. Usman noted that the perpetrators had likely been tipped off about the Navy’s approach. Despite their escape, the Navy successfully dismantled the illegal operations and seized significant quantities of crude oil and diesel.
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“On arrival at the scene, the perpetrators have fled, obviously informed about our coming in fear of arrest,” Usman explained. “However, the entire area was crammed, and we discovered about 20,000 litres of stolen crude oil, which was yet to be cooked, and about 15,000 litres of illegally refined product suspected to be automatic gas oil (AGO), or diesel.”
Navy’s Commitment to Environmental Protection
Captain Usman emphasised that the Nigerian Navy remains committed to environmental protection and the eradication of illegal refineries. He highlighted this operation as a significant achievement in their ongoing campaign against crude oil theft and environmental degradation.
“This is yet another achievement for the Nigerian Navy in the efforts to clean up the environment and prevent all acts of illegalities by perpetrators against the Nigerian state,” Usman said. “These efforts will continue until all illegalities are stopped, and this will be sustained as long as possible.”
Community Sensitisation Efforts
In addition to dismantling the illegal refineries, the Navy took the opportunity to educate the local community about the dangers of supporting such activities. Captain Usman urged residents of the Obenla community to avoid harbouring illegal refineries and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
He also advised those involved in illegal refining to seek legitimate means of livelihood, warning that the Navy will not relent in its efforts to bring all acts of illegality to an end.
The Nigerian Navy’s action against illegal refineries in Ondo State demonstrates its ongoing commitment to combating crude oil theft and environmental damage. By dismantling these illegal operations, the Navy not only disrupts the activities of criminals but also protects the country’s natural resources and environment.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
