Hussaini Kafi in Kano
Troops of Operation Delta Safe have foiled a large-scale oil theft operation worth over N250 million in the Niger Delta, in one of the most significant crackdowns against economic saboteurs this year.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed this in a statement on Friday while presenting the weekly report of ongoing military operations across the country.
Kangye said troops recovered and destroyed stolen petroleum products valued at N250,425,833.00, including 221,170 litres of crude oil, 28,495 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 3,140 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The operation also led to the destruction of 46 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 23 boats, 44 storage tanks, 52 drums, and 16 illegal refining sites. Other recovered items included 21 vehicles, outboard engines, drilling and pumping machines, tricycles, motorcycles, horses, and mobile phones.
“In addition, 27 oil thieves and other criminals were arrested, with assorted arms and ammunition recovered,” the statement noted.
The crackdown formed part of a nationwide series of joint military operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across the country.
In the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai forced dozens of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists to surrender in areas like Konduga, Gwoza, Kukawa, and Maiduguri. Four terrorists were arrested while two kidnapped victims were rescued, and several weapons and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) were recovered.
In the North-West, under Operation Fagge Yamma, troops killed several terrorists during operations in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina states, with three kidnapped victims rescued and weapons seized. Notably, 19 kidnapped victims were also unconditionally released by terrorists who surrendered in Danmusa, Katsina State.
Troops operating in the North-Central region under Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke also recorded significant achievements. In Plateau and Kaduna states, several extremists were killed, five kidnapped victims were rescued, and 14 criminal suspects were arrested. Arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and livestock were also recovered.
In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA killed five extremists and arrested nine others during operations in Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu states. Weapons, ammunition, and vehicles were recovered during the engagements.
Speaking on behalf of the military high command, Kangye commended the bravery and professionalism of the troops and urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies.
“Our commitment to national security remains unwavering. The Armed Forces will continue to engage the public and ensure peace across all regions,” he said.
He assured that the military would maintain transparency in its operations and continue to inform the public of its achievements in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and citizens.
