The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has reported the arrest of 39 suspected oil thieves and the destruction of 18 illegal refineries in a six-day operation across the Niger Delta region.
In a statement released Monday, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, detailed the operation, which also resulted in the seizure of 60,000 liters of stolen petroleum products. The operation involved collaboration with other security agencies and spanned Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states.
In Rivers State, troops intercepted a truck carrying stolen products and dismantled several illegal refining sites along the Imo River and in the Rumuekpe Forest. Operations also targeted illegal refineries in Ebocha, Omoku, and Jelikri Creek.
In Bayelsa State, two illegal refining sites were destroyed in Adibawa, and another in Okighene, with thousands of liters of stolen crude and refined gasoline seized.
In Delta State, troops confiscated illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO) at Egbokodo Itsekiri Community. In Akwa Ibom State, the Army stated that they have dominated the area, making it impossible for criminals to operate.
Major General Emmanuel Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, urged troops to intensify their efforts against oil thieves and ensure a stable environment for oil exploration. He warned those involved in illegal activities to seek legitimate livelihoods or face legal consequences.
