The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reported the discovery of at least 72 illegal refineries over the course of a week across Rivers, Delta, and Abia states. In a video released by the company, they detailed findings that highlight the extent of illegal oil operations in these regions.
On August 18, the Operation Delta Safe team intercepted a vessel in the Southern Ijaw area of Bayelsa State, apprehending 12 individuals on board. The tugboat was found transporting stolen flow lines from Shell Petroleum Development Company, further illustrating the illegal activities taking place. NNPCL noted, “The tugboat was caught loaded with stolen Shell Petroleum Development Company flow lines, which indicates that thieves not only tapped into the pipelines but also dismantled sections to steal the infrastructure itself.”
Currently, the suspects are in custody as investigations continue. Additionally, NNPCL revealed that there have been 46 infractions related to automatic identification systems recorded at sea and that 24 wooden boats carrying stolen crude oil were intercepted in Rivers and Bayelsa states. These developments mark a significant effort to combat oil theft and illegal refining in Nigeria.