Crude oil theft and illegal refining are carried out by sophisticated and coordinated syndicates. The Nigerian Navy has warned that there is no hiding place for criminals involved in these activities. According to the Director, Naval Information, it takes significant resources to successfully steal crude oil, indicating that those behind it are not petty thieves.

The syndicates involved are said to be very coordinated and sophisticated, with the ability to steal crude oil on a large scale. Further details about the Navy's stance on crude oil theft are available from their recent appearance on a television program. The Navy's comments suggest a complex and organized operation behind the theft and illegal refining of crude oil.