The 6th Division of the Nigerian Army has dismantled 34 illegal oil refining sites and apprehended 11 suspected oil thieves in extensive operations across the Niger Delta between November 18 and 24, 2024.
These operations, conducted in collaboration with other agencies, targeted criminal activities in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, and Akwa Ibom states, resulting in the recovery of over 80,650 litres of stolen petroleum products.
Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, highlighted notable achievements in Rivers State, where operations in Buguma Creeks led to the dismantling of eight illegal refineries and the recovery of over 25,000 litres of stolen oil. In Iyalama/Bakana, troops secured over 8,000 litres of stolen products and seized wooden boats and other equipment. Additional interceptions included vessels containing 6,000 litres of condensate and over 3,000 litres of stolen crude near Ogaji-Ama.
Operations in Bonny Local Government Area uncovered an illegal refinery with 10,000 litres of crude, while efforts in Ahoada West and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni led to the seizure of over 5,000 litres of stolen oil. In Oboburu, troops neutralized an armed vandal, recovering a pump-action gun and cartridges.
Further successes in Imo River and Oyigbo areas saw the dismantling of 20 illegal refineries and recovery of 15,000 litres of stolen oil. In Bayelsa State, troops dismantled illegal refineries and seized 4,000 litres of stolen products in Ekeremor and Nembe.
Delta and Edo states also recorded successes, including the discovery of stolen oil at Lamiel Hotel in Uvwie and vehicles loaded with stolen products in Orhiomwon. In Akwa Ibom, intensified patrols continue to curb criminal activities.
In total, the operations dismantled 34 illegal refining sites, deactivated 19 boats, seized 80,650 litres of stolen oil, and neutralized numerous tools of economic sabotage. Major General Jamal Abdussalam commended the troops’ efforts and reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to combating oil theft and boosting the region’s economic stability.