Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division have intensified operations to tackle oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and related crimes across the Niger Delta region, arresting 62 suspected economic saboteurs and confiscating over 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
This information is contained in a statement released on Sunday by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma.
“The operations, conducted between July 14 and 20, 2025, in collaboration with other security agencies, underscore our commitment to eradicating illegal oil activities,” said Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma.
Illegal Refineries Dismantled in Rivers and Bayelsa
In Rivers State, the troops dismantled six illegal refining sites near Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West LGA, recovering about 300,000 litres of crude oil and 21,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), along with equipment such as ovens, reservoirs, a generator, and a welding machine.
“Additionally, two boats carrying ten sacks of condensates were intercepted at Obiafor, while a Sienna vehicle loaded with over 1,900 litres of stolen AGO was seized in Elele Town,” he revealed.
In Bayelsa, four refining sites and four dug-out pits were deactivated around Biseni in Yenagoa LGA, with troops confiscating over 10,000 litres of AGO.
Troops Sustain Pressure in Delta and Akwa Ibom
Operations extended to Delta and Akwa Ibom states, where more suspects were apprehended and equipment seized.
“Following a tip-off, troops arrested two suspects in Sapele LGA, Delta State, with two boats containing over 1,500 litres of illegally refined AGO,” Danjuma said.
He added that the General Officer Commanding, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, has praised the troops’ efforts and urged them to maintain momentum: “Our forces remain determined to deny criminals any freedom of action in the region.”
