The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has attributed the recent fire at its Buguma Wellhead 008 in Rivers State to acts of vandalism.
The wellhead, located in the Buguma community of Degema Local Government Area, is operated by NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd., a subsidiary of NNPCL.
In a statement by NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye, it was revealed that the fire was triggered by vandals attempting to tamper with the Christmas Tree structure to steal crude oil.
This sabotage caused significant damage to the well’s back pressure valve and reflects a troubling trend of recurring attacks in the area.
According to Soneye, crude oil theft has been a persistent issue at the site since March 2023, with criminals employing extreme tactics, including the use of dynamite, to destroy infrastructure and access hydrocarbons illegally.
NNPCL emphasized its commitment to tackling such incidents and minimizing the economic losses resulting from these criminal activities, which severely impact the nation’s economy.
The company is collaborating with security agencies to curb these acts of sabotage and vandalism.
Furthermore, NNPCL pledged to support communities affected by these incidents, providing necessary relief efforts to reduce the impact on those directly impacted by the destructive activities.
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