In a significant crackdown, the Nigerian Army has detained 35 individuals suspected of engaging in oil theft and operating illegal refineries across four states in the Niger Delta.
According to Lt.-Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesperson for the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt, the operations took place in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers states.
During the operations conducted from October 21 to October 27, the army dismantled 58 illegal artisanal refineries and confiscated approximately 11,200 litres of stolen crude oil along with 355,000 litres of adulterated diesel.
In Rivers state alone, troops dismantled 22 illegal refineries, seizing 131,500 litres of illicitly refined diesel, 10,300 litres of condensates, and two wooden boats. Six suspects were apprehended in various Local Government Areas including Akuku-Toru, Ahoada East, and Degema.
In Akwa Ibom, the army reported significant success, dismantling 34 illegal refining sites and arresting 27 suspects. Seized items included 215,000 litres of adulterated diesel, 19 wooden boats, nine vehicles, and 20 nylon bags used for storing petroleum products.
In Delta state, two suspected oil thieves were arrested, and 1,200 litres of crude oil, along with various equipment, were confiscated in Warri South and Ethiope West LGAs.
Lastly, operations in Bayelsa resulted in the destruction of two illegal refining sites and the seizure of 8,500 litres of diesel and 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil, with seven wooden boats confiscated and three vandals arrested in Ekeremor, Nembe, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa LGAs.
