Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have dealt a significant blow to oil thieves in the Niger Delta region, arresting several suspects and recovering large quantities of stolen products and arms.
The operations, which took place from October 21 to 27, 2024, were conducted in conjunction with other security agencies and recorded enormous operational successes. .
In Rivers State, the troops deactivated three artisanal refineries, arrested several oil thieves, and recovered over 100,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Abesa, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area.
A large wooden boat was also intercepted with over 7,000 litres of stolen condensates in Bukuma general area, Degema LGA.
Africa Health Report gathered that the troops additionally handled two illegal refining sites and a wooden boat loaded with over 3,000 litres of stolen products in Bille general area, Degema LGA.
Furthermore, five suspected oil thieves were arrested while attempting to compromise the Oando pipeline in Obiafo Oil Field, with several items recovered, including eleven sacks of stolen products, three drilling machines, and over 1,500 litres of stolen products.
In another operation, troops arrested an oil thief with a locally made revolver loaded with 6 rounds of 7.26mm special ammunition in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA.
A dugout pit was also destroyed, and 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil were recovered at a Wellhead in Odagwa Community. Moreover, over 2,000 litres of stolen products were recovered in Nylon bags.
In Ahoada East LGA, troops intercepted a Toyota Sienna without a registration number, loaded with 25 sacks containing products suspected to be condensates, estimated to be over 1,500 litres. A fabricated double barrel gun was also recovered.
These operations demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to clamping down on illegal oil bunkering and related activities in the Niger Delta region.
The General Officer Commanding of 6 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, while appreciating troops for their bravery, charged them to continue to dominate the JOA. He urged them to ensure a conducive environment is created for socio-economic activities to thrive in the region.
