By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigerian Navy has intensified its clampdown on illegal petroleum activities with the seizure of about 1,800 litres of suspected illegally sourced Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) during a targeted operation in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State.
The operation, carried out by personnel of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lekki, took place around 10:30 p.m. on 6 May 2026 at the Mobido Axis of Ibeju-Lekki following actionable intelligence on the activities of suspected oil thieves and illegal petroleum dealers in the area.
According to the Navy, the patrol team acted swiftly on credible information indicating that the location was being used as an illegal storage facility for petroleum products. Upon arrival, the suspects reportedly fled the scene after sighting naval operatives, abandoning the products behind.
A search of the site led to the recovery of 10 containers of 30 litres each alongside five drums containing substances suspected to be AGO, with the total volume estimated at approximately 1,800 litres.
The confiscated products were thereafter moved to FOB Lekki for further investigation and necessary action in accordance with operational guidelines. The operation was concluded in the early hours of 7 May 2026.
The Nigerian Navy stated that the successful operation reflects its unwavering commitment to curbing crude oil theft, illegal bunkering, and other petroleum-related crimes threatening the nation’s economy and maritime security.
It reiterated that sustained intelligence-driven operations across the maritime environment would continue to ensure that economic saboteurs are denied freedom of operation.
The Navy also reaffirmed its determination to protect Nigeria’s economic resources and maintain security within the country’s territorial waters and coastal communities.
