Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have uncovered massive oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta Region (NDR), recovering vast illegal refining hubs and arresting dozens of suspects.
According to a statement signed by Acting Deputy Director 6 Division, Army Public Relations Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma on Sunday, between April 28 and May 11, 2025, operatives dismantled 21 illicit refining sites, apprehended 36 suspects, and recovered more than 591,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
In Rivers State, troops uncovered a sophisticated bunkering operation in the Orashi Game Reserve/Okolomade area of Abua/Odual LGA, where a 15-kilometre hose led to an illegal loading point. Follow-up operations revealed five large-scale refining sites and metal tanks containing over 350,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO).
“Large ovens, dugouts filled with over 100,000 litres of stolen crude, and various equipment including pumping machines and electric accessories were also seized,” the statement added.
Further operations at the Imo River fringes and surrounding areas led to the destruction of seven illegal sites, confiscation of over 21,500 litres of crude in 1,428 bags, and seizure of five boats.
Troops also intercepted vehicles loaded with stolen products, including a truck in Eleme LGA with 20,000 litres of stolen oil, and a hidden Pureputt boat in Bonny LGA carrying over 10,000 litres.
In Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta States, similar interceptions occurred, including a tanker in Uyo loaded with 16,500 litres of suspected stolen crude, and vehicles carrying arms and illegally refined AGO in Delta’s Isoko South and Oshimili South LGAs.
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, continued his operational tour of the region, commending troops for their efforts.
“These visits have significantly redefined operational engagements and boosted troop morale,” the Army stated, emphasizing their commitment to sustaining the crackdown against “economic saboteurs and associated crimes.”
