The Nigerian Navy seized approximately 1,800 litres of suspected illegally acquired diesel during a raid in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State. The operation occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Mobido Axis, following intelligence reports of illegal petroleum activities in the area. Personnel from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lekki conducted the operation, discovering 10 containers of 30 litres each and five drums believed to contain Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). The suspects fled upon sighting the naval patrol team, leaving the products behind.
A statement issued Thursday by Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, confirmed the confiscated items were transported to FOB Lekki for further processing. The operation concluded in the early hours of May 7, 2026. The Navy described the raid as part of ongoing intelligence-driven efforts to disrupt illegal petroleum trade within Nigeria's maritime zones. It emphasized its commitment to denying economic saboteurs safe havens across coastal regions.
The service reiterated that operations targeting crude oil theft, illegal refining, and related crimes remain active nationwide. "There will be no hiding place for economic saboteurs," the statement said. The Navy affirmed its focus on protecting national economic assets and enhancing security in littoral communities through sustained patrols and intelligence gathering.
