Nigerian troops have made significant strides in combating illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta, as disclosed by the Defence Headquarters. Over the past week, Operation Delta Safe has achieved the destruction of 51 illegal oil refining sites and the recovery of stolen crude oil and refined products. This decisive action has also led to the apprehension of 58 perpetrators of oil theft, denying them access to an estimated sum of N668.7 million.
In the course of their operations, the troops dealt a severe blow to the illegal activities by destroying seven dugout pits, 25 boats, 47 storage tanks, five vehicles, 141 cooking ovens, one pumping machine, one outboard engine, one tricycle, one speedboat, and one tugboat. Additionally, they recovered 267,700 litres of stolen crude oil, 567,700 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 5,000 litres of DPK.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, emphasized the sustained momentum against oil theft, citing specific achievements in Bonny and Ikpoba Local Government Areas of Rivers and Edo States, where arrests related to oil theft were made. Furthermore, the troops effectively tackled suspected armed robbers and thwarted illegal bunkering activities in Oshimili South and Ukwa West of Delta and Abia States.
Moving to the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA successfully apprehended 15 suspected criminals and repelled attacks by IPOB/ESN criminals in Anambra, Abia, and Imo States. Their commendable efforts also resulted in the rescue of kidnapped hostages in Ishielu and Igbo Eze North Local Government Areas of Ebonyi and Enugu States. With precision and valor, the troops neutralized three criminals, rescued five kidnapped hostages, and recovered 14 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammo.
In the South West, Operation AWATSE’s troops displayed unwavering vigilance by foiling armed robbery attacks in Orelope and Olorunsogo Local Government Areas of Oyo State and apprehending a gunrunner in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun. Their resolute actions culminated in the rescue of 15 kidnapped hostages and the recovery of two vehicles.
All seized items, apprehended suspects, and rescued hostages have been diligently handed over to the relevant authorities for further necessary actions.
This resolute and effective crackdown on illegal oil activities by Nigerian troops underscores their unwavering commitment to upholding law and order and safeguarding the nation’s resources.
