The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny has deactivated four illegal refining sites and denied oil thieves approximately 35,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil in Okpokiri Community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State.
A statement on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 by the FOB Bonny disclosed that an intelligence-led operation by its armed personnel of its anti-crude oil theft team took place on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 around Okpokiri Community in Bonny LGA.
“Following credible intelligence on illegal activities around Okpokiri Community within the Forward Operating Base Bonny area of operation, the Base anti-COT team comprising 12 armed personnel on three gunboats cast off Shell slot jetty at about 10:20am on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 for patrol.
“The patrol commenced from Bonny Anchorage and proceeded through Nanabie Creek to the vicinity of Okpokiri Community.
“The team deployed its drone for aerial surveillance around the area and observed dug-out pits within the surroundings. Accordingly, the team beach landed for further assessment.
“On investigation, the team discovered one large and three medium sized dug-out pits. The large dug-out pit contained an estimated 21,000l of suspected stolen crude oil.
“Two of the smaller dug-out pits contained an estimated 10,500l and 8,000l of products suspected to be stolen crude oil, while the other one was filled with water.
“Cumulatively, an estimated 39,500l of product suspected to be stolen crude oil was discovered at the site. pertinently, the site was handled appropriately in line with extant regulations.
In furtherance of the strategic directives and operational guidance of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, AM, the Forward Operating Base Bonny has sustained its aggression against crude oil theft, vandalization of oil and gas infrastructure and maritime crime within its area of operation.
Under its current leadership, the FOB Bonny has continued to accentuate its efforts in helping alongside other Navy formations to sustain the upward trajectory of increasing Nigeria’s crude oil output across the region.