The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified its crackdown on illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region, recording significant successes in a week-long operation.
Between November 25 and December 1, troops from the 6 Division dismantled over 56 illegal oil refining sites and recovered more than 1.2 million litres of stolen crude oil, along with other petroleum products.
According to a press release by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma, 6 Division army public relations officer, below are key highlights of the operation:
Bayelsa State:
In Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA), security forces deactivated 15 illegal refining sites at Okordia Forest, recovering 755,000 litres of stolen crude and 53,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Another 12 sites were shut down in Biseni Forest, yielding 34,000 litres of crude and 5,500 litres of AGO.
Rivers State:
In Akuku-Toru LGA, troops uncovered an illegal connection to a 36-inch government pipeline, along with a reservoir containing over 100,000 litres of stolen products.
In Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, an abandoned truck carrying 35,000 litres of stolen crude concealed with sawdust was discovered.
In Degema LGA, operations dismantled illegal refining sites and intercepted various equipment, including wooden boats and speedboats, with over 12,000 litres of stolen crude confiscated. Three suspects were arrested.
Delta and Edo States:
Troops pursued saboteurs to Ugo Community in Orhionwon LGA, Edo State, leading to the arrest of a suspect and the discovery of a storage facility containing over 40,000 litres of stolen products.
In Warri South LGA, one refining site was dismantled, with 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO seized.
Akwa Ibom State:
Acting on intelligence, troops intercepted over 5,580 litres of petroleum motor spirit (PMS) at Enwang Bridge in Mbo LGA, believed to be destined for smuggling to a neighbouring country.
Equipment and arrests
The operation led to the recovery of 88 cooking drums, 20 boats, seven vehicles, and 26 metal container receivers, among other equipment. A total of 17 suspects were apprehended in connection to these illegal activities.
Army commitment
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, praised the troops for their efforts and pledged to sustain the offensive against illegal bunkering.
He emphasized the importance of protecting critical national infrastructure in the region.
This operation yet again underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to tackle economic sabotage and secure the nation’s oil assets in various regions of the country.