The Nigerian Navy has uncovered about 75,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil stored in three dugout reservoirs in the Oteghele general area of Delta State.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, said in an operational report on Friday that the discoveries were made during two separate operations on October 12 and 14.
Folorunsho said Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA, operating under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, discovered approximately 30,000 litres of suspected stolen crude oil in one reservoir on October 12.
A further 45,000 litres was uncovered in two large reservoirs on October 14.
He said the reservoirs and their contents were handled in accordance with established procedures.
According to the naval spokesman, the discoveries highlighted the presence of concealed storage facilities that could facilitate the accumulation and onward movement of suspected stolen crude oil.
“Uncovering these stockpiles disrupt a key link in the illicit petroleum trade and reduces opportunities for the unlawful exploitation of the nation’s oil resources.
“Through Operation DELTA SENTINEL, the navy has continued to uncover concealed petroleum stockpiles and disrupt infrastructure suspected of supporting crude oil theft.
“The navy will sustain intelligence-led operations to identify and dismantle such facilities, constrain the activities of oil thieves and illegal refiners, and protect critical national assets.”
Folorunsho said the operations were aimed at curbing oil-related economic sabotage and protecting Nigeria’s petroleum revenue.
