The Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda has dismantled nine illegal refinery sites and confiscated 20,000 litres of crude oil along with 15,000 litres of illegally refined diesel in the Obenla community, located in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Navy Captain Aliyu Usman, Commander of the Base, revealed this during a press briefing on Thursday.
According to him, the operation, conducted on January 6, 2025, was based on credible intelligence.
He added that the perpetrators fled the scene before the arrival of naval operatives, likely alerted by the fear of arrest.
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Usman described the operation as a significant milestone in the Navy’s commitment to combating illegal activities and protecting Nigeria’s environment.
He further urged residents of the Obenla community to desist from supporting or harbouring illegal activities, highlighting the environmental and economic dangers associated with crude oil theft and illegal refining.
The Commander also advised those involved in such unlawful ventures to embrace legitimate means of livelihood, assuring that the Navy would not relent in its mission to uphold security and order.
