The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has reported 179 cases of crude oil theft across the Niger Delta between January 11 and 17, 2025. Among the discoveries were 29 illegal pipeline connections and 55 illegal refineries, thanks to coordinated efforts involving industry players and security agencies.
Illegal pipeline connections and refineries in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Abia States were dismantled, while hidden storage sites used for black-market petroleum production were exposed and destroyed. Security forces also intercepted vehicles and wooden boats carrying stolen crude oil. Sadly, acts of sabotage caused several oil spills, including damage to pipelines and wellheads in Rivers State.
The NNPC revealed that the incidents were spread across various corridors: 90 in the Central Corridor, 70 in the Eastern Corridor, five in the Western Corridor, and 14 in Deep Blue Water. Thirty suspects were arrested during the operations and handed over for further investigation.
With 128 illegal refineries uncovered so far in 2025, NNPC reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating crude oil theft, which continues to undermine Nigeria’s oil production targets. The company said the crackdown remains unwavering, with enhanced security collaboration to protect hydrocarbon infrastructure.
