By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Nigerian Navy has discovered approximately 40,000 litres of suspected crude oil stored in a dugout reservoir in the Oteghele general area of Delta State, in a renewed push to combat crude oil theft and other illicit petroleum activities.

The discovery was made on October 7, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA (NNS DELTA), following credible intelligence about suspected crude oil theft and related illegal activities in the area.

According to the operational account, the suspected crude oil was found stored in a large dugout reservoir. The recovered substance and the site were subsequently handled in line with established operational procedures.

The latest discovery underscores the Navy’s sustained efforts to dismantle suspected crude oil theft networks, prevent illegal petroleum storage and protect Nigeria’s oil and gas assets from criminal exploitation.

The operation also follows an earlier discovery of approximately 30,000 litres of suspected crude oil in the same Oteghele area on September 21, 2026. The two operations, conducted within a short period, highlight the need for sustained surveillance and intelligence driven action against the illicit activities threatening the country’s petroleum industry.

With the latest operation, NNS DELTA has reinforced its commitment to supporting the fight against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, where illegal oil-related activities continue to pose challenges to national revenue, energy security and environmental protection.