19 Suspected Oil Thieves Apprehended
The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division troops arrested 19 suspects and destroyed 43 illegal oil refineries in the Niger Delta. These operations, targeting oil theft, were conducted across Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Delta states. In addition to the arrests, soldiers confiscated approximately 260,000 litres of stolen oil products.
Illegal Refineries Dismantled in Rivers State
The army’s crackdown included a raid in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area in Rivers, where troops dismantled seven illegal refining sites. This action led to the seizure of over 60,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Similar efforts in the Cawthorne Channel and Bille areas also resulted in the destruction of multiple refining hubs and the recovery of about 41,000 litres of stolen oil products.
Military Confiscates Equipment Used in Oil Theft
During these operations, soldiers intercepted 11 vehicles, 21 boats, and 11 motorcycles used to transport stolen oil products. In the Buguma Creek area, they dismantled four refining hubs and seized over 12,500 litres of stolen oil. Several wooden boats, filled with over 10,000 litres of stolen products, were also confiscated in the vicinity of Oyigbo and other communities.
Operations Continue in Delta and Bayelsa
In Delta State, soldiers intercepted a tanker truck loaded with 45,000 litres of stolen oil. Troops also seized two tankers, pumping machines, and hoses used to siphon crude oil from a barge at Willis Jetty. In Bayelsa State, military personnel detained three suspects transporting 1,500 litres of stolen oil in Ogbia Local Government Area.
Illegal Storage Sites Destroyed in Ikwerre LGA
Further action in Ikwerre LGA led to the destruction of two illegal refining sites along the Choba Aluu waterways. Troops also intercepted two tankers carrying 96,000 litres of stolen oil on the Okopedi Atai road in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area. Several vehicles suspected of transporting stolen oil were abandoned by drivers who fled the scene.
Army Pledges Continued Action Against Oil Theft
Maj. Gen. Jamal Abdussalam commended the 6 Division troops for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts. He expressed confidence that these operations would reduce oil theft in the region. Abdussalam noted that curbing theft would support Nigeria’s economic stability by boosting legitimate oil production.
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