Rivers oil theft suspects arrested as Navy seizes 44,000 litres of illicit fuel during Operation Delta Sentinel crackdown
The Nigerian Navy on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in Rivers State arrested eight suspects and seized about 44,000 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products during an operation in the Degema, Ogbogoro and Ogbologo axis.
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The operation was carried out under Operation DELTA SENTINEL by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder.
According to Abiodun Folorunsho, the naval patrol team acted on credible intelligence to intercept two wooden boats laden with suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.
He said eight suspects linked to the illicit activity were arrested during the operation, while some armed accomplices fled on sighting the patrol team.
Folorunsho disclosed that the suspects and recovered products are currently in custody and will be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
He noted that the successful operation aligns with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, to intensify efforts against crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
The Navy emphasised that it will sustain the momentum of Operation DELTA SENTINEL through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced patrols and inter-agency collaboration.
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The spokesperson reaffirmed the service’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and protecting critical national assets from economic sabotage.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
