Operatives from the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Igbokoda, Ondo State, have successfully demolished an illegal refinery in the Biokpu/Opouama riverine communities within the Awoye general area of Ilaje Local Government Area. The operation, which involved both surface and air assaults, was conducted with the support of a Naval helicopter.
During the operation, authorities discovered and destroyed 182,000 litres of crude oil, along with nine locally made ovens and four boats containing 60 kegs of illegally refined petroleum products. The Commanding Officer of the Base, Navy Captain Wasuku Alushi, stated that the destroyed refined products were valued at approximately N97 million.
Captain Alushi explained that the operation was part of the mandate of Operations Delta Sanity, aimed at curbing illegal activities in the region. Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, supervised a special air operation to provide aerial intelligence on criminal hideouts and hotspots in the area.
Despite not apprehending any suspects due to the challenging terrain, efforts are underway in collaboration with community leaders and other security agencies to gather information that could lead to the arrest of those involved. Captain Alushi issued a stern warning to criminals engaged in illegal refining activities, stating that they will be pursued and brought to justice.
