Army Intensifies Crackdown on Oil Theft, Dismantles 37 Illegal Refining Sites

The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in partnership with other security agencies, has ramped up its fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta, recording major breakthroughs between December 16 and 22, 2024.

The operations led to the destruction of 37 illegal refining sites, the arrest of 10 suspected oil thieves, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, according to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations.

Obiafu, ONELGA LGA: Nine illegal refining sites were dismantled, resulting in the seizure of 176 cooking drums, several pumping machines, and over 60,000 litres of stolen crude oil, AGO, and DPK. Four suspects were apprehended at the scene.

Asari-Toru LGA: Three illegal refining sites and a large boat were destroyed, with 24,000 litres of stolen products recovered.

Degema LGA: Troops intercepted three boats carrying over 16,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products during operations in the area.

Bayelsa State: Troops discovered and confiscated 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil at Kunsho Creek in Southern Ijaw LGA.

They also uncovered an abandoned attempt to compromise a Shell Petroleum Development Company pipeline in Ekeremor LGA.

Delta State: A tanker truck set up to siphon crude oil was intercepted in Obiukwole Community, Ethiope East LGA. A concealed hose linking the truck to the pipeline was uncovered, leading to the arrest of four suspects.

Akwa Ibom State: Routine patrols across waterways and hinterlands have continued to deter criminal activities, ensuring stability in the region.

Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding of 6 Division, commended the troops for their commitment to protecting Nigeria’s oil assets.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance to deny criminals any opportunity to exploit the nation’s resources.

The military also called on local communities to report suspicious activities, pledging to sustain the momentum in the fight against oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

Oil theft and illegal refining have long plagued the Niger Delta, causing significant economic losses and environmental degradation.

The latest operations are part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing effort to secure the region and protect its critical infrastructure.