Nigerian Navy dismantles black-market fuel ring in Okrika

Crime Diary

RIVERS STATE, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER, operating under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, has dismantled a major black-market fuel syndicate in Rivers State, uncovering a concealed storage hub linked to illegal petroleum distribution.

During anti-crude oil theft patrols in the Okochiri Kingdom, Okrika Local Government Area, naval personnel discovered a warehouse containing 410 drums, cumulatively laden with approximately 123,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

According to preliminary assessments, the products were transported from illegal refining sites outside the community and stockpiled for onward distribution through illicit supply networks.

In a statement signed by Abiodun Folorunsho, Navy Captain, Director of Naval Information Nigerian Navy, the Navy revealed that the syndicate’s operations reflect a growing trend in which criminal networks are shifting beyond refining camps into hidden storage and distribution systems designed to evade ongoing anti-crude oil theft crackdowns.

Exhibits recovered included the drums of AGO and evidence of illicit transport vehicles used in the scheme.

Navy Captain Abiodun emphasized that the operation demonstrates the Navy’s resolve to protect critical national assets and deny economic saboteurs operational space within Nigeria’s maritime and littoral environment. He reaffirmed that the Navy’s strategy remains intelligence-led, targeting both refining camps and the wider networks sustaining black-market fuel trade.

The Navy’s leadership stressed that such illegal activities not only undermine Nigeria’s economy but also pose environmental and security risks to communities in the Niger Delta. The crackdown forms part of the Chief of Naval Staff’s vision to strengthen maritime security and safeguard national resources.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations against oil theft and illegal refining.