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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has reported the discovery of 165 additional illegal refineries in different areas of the Niger Delta.
A recent NNPC documentary revealed that between June 15 and 21, approximately 400 cases of oil theft and vandalism were reported by government and private security agencies.
In Bayelsa and Rivers States, 69 illegal connections were found and subsequently disconnected.
The report also highlighted at least eight incidents of oil spills caused by vandalism or illegal connections in the region.
In Warri, Delta State, authorities reportedly found an illegal loading point. The NNPC revealed that 69 illegal refineries were discovered and dismantled across several swamps in Okrika, Rivers State.
The construction of an 'oven' for illegal crude oil refining was reportedly stopped.
Similar illegal refining sites were also found in various locations in Abia and Bayelsa States.
NNPC revealed that they discovered 19 illegal storage sites containing stolen crude oil and illegally refined products in Delta, Imo, Rivers, Abia, and Bayelsa States. Additionally, they seized 11 vehicles in Delta, Akwa-Ibom, and Bayelsa, and confiscated 39 boats transporting stolen crude in Rivers, Delta, and Bayelsa. Furthermore, eight individuals were arrested in connection with these incidents.
The NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, stressed the importance of addressing insecurity in the oil and gas sector to boost production.
Kyari highlighted that the nation's crude oil production continues to decline due to oil theft and vandalism.
He emphasized the need to address security challenges in onshore assets to attract investment in oil production.
Kyari also mentioned the removal of illegal connections from pipelines and illegal refineries as essential steps to attract investment in the sector.
