Gom Mirian
In a major crackdown on oil theft, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have recovered 578,900 litres of stolen crude oil and apprehended 51 suspects in the last two weeks.
This was disclosed on Thursday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, while updating the public on the ongoing military operations.
He revealed that the troops also recovered a total of 454,330 litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), and 10,000 litres of DPK (Dual Purpose Kerosene). .
Gen. Buba said: “In addition to the recovery of stolen petroleum products, the troops have also discovered and destroyed 245 dugout pits, 31 boats, 69 storage tanks, one tricycle, and 23 vehicles. These items were being used by criminals to facilitate their illicit activities.
“The operation has led to the dismantling of 50 illegal refining sites and the seizure of 162 cooking ovens, one pumping machine, and 3 outboard engines. These items are crucial in the process of illegal refining, which poses a significant threat to the environment and public safety.
“Troops recovered one single barrel gun, one Josef Magnum Pump action gun, 32 live cartridges, some empty cases of 7.62 mm special ammo, one vehicle, 3 black fragmental jackets, 2 pairs of Edo State Security Network uniforms, charms and cutlasses.
“On 19 November 2023, following INTREP, troops ambushed suspected kidnappers and made contact in Bakassi of Cross River State. Following a firefight, troops neutralized 3 criminals while others fled. Troops recovered 2 locally made pistols, 10 rounds of 9mm ammo, 2 mobile phones and one cutlass.
Operation DELTA SAFE is a joint military task force aimed at combating oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal refining, and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta region. The operation has been instrumental in curbing the activities of criminal elements and protecting the region’s natural resources.
