Crude Oil Theft: Army seizes 130,000 litres, dismantles 37 illegal refineries
The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified its crackdown on oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
Between December 16 and December 22, 2024, these operations led to the dismantling of 37 illegal refining sites, the arrest of 10 suspected oil thieves, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
According to reports, the details of these operations were disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma.
The statement highlighted several key successes, including the destruction of nine illegal refining sites in Obiafu, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) Local Government Area of Rivers State.
During the operations, troops seized 176 cooking drums, various pumping machines, and over 60,000 litres of stolen crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK). Four suspects were arrested at the scene.
In Asari-Toru Local Government Area, troops dismantled three illegal refining sites and a large boat, recovering 24,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. Similarly, in Degema Local Government Area, three boats carrying over 16,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products were intercepted.
Further operations in Ozorchi Forest in Abua/Odual and along the Imo River resulted in the destruction of illegal refining equipment and the recovery of 15,000 litres of stolen products.
In Bayelsa State, troops thwarted attempts to vandalize pipelines and dismantled illegal refining sites. Around Kunsho Creek in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil were seized. In Ekeremor Local Government Area, an abandoned attempt to compromise a Shell Petroleum Development Company pipeline was uncovered.
In Delta State, troops intercepted a tanker truck positioned to siphon crude oil from a pipeline in the Obiukwole Community of Ethiope East Local Government Area. A concealed hose connecting the truck to the pipeline was discovered, and four suspects were arrested.
Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, military personnel conducted extensive patrols across rural areas and waterways to deter criminal activities.
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops for their commitment and urged them to remain vigilant. He reassured the public that the military remains resolute in its mission to prevent criminals from establishing a foothold in the region.
