Troops of the Nigerian Army have apprehended at least 15 individuals in connection with suspected oil theft and illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta. The operation, conducted in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers states, resulted in the dismantling of 32 artisanal refineries and the seizure of 14 boats, according to Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Danjuma, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division in Port Harcourt.
Danjuma confirmed that the operations, which took place between January 6 and 12, led to the confiscation of at least 60,000 liters of petroleum products. The actions were part of a coordinated effort involving multiple security agencies aimed at combating oil theft in the region.
The operations began in Bille, located in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, where soldiers dismantled seven illegal refineries, seized 20,000 liters of crude oil, and destroyed two boats. In addition, the troops deactivated 10 illegal refineries, along with several crude oil cooking pots and receivers, recovering around 19,000 liters of stolen petroleum products along the Imo River.
In Odagwa, Etche, the troops intercepted three boats carrying approximately 12,000 liters of stolen crude oil and arrested three suspects. Similar operations were carried out in various other locations, including Abiama, Asa, Obuzor, Okoloma, Ozaa, Ukwa, and Oyigbo.
The soldiers also advanced to Nkisa, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers, where they confiscated 1,600 liters of crude oil and 1,200 liters of adulterated diesel. Additionally, on Ndoni Road, the troops intercepted a Toyota van transporting an estimated 1,200 liters of stolen condensate. In Buguma, Asari-Toru, Rivers State, two illegal refineries were dismantled, 1,500 liters of stolen crude oil were seized, and five suspects were arrested.
