Nigerian troops of Operation Delta Safe have executed a decisive blow against criminal activities in the Niger Delta region, obliterating 51 illegal oil refining sites in the span of a week. In a statement disclosed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, it was revealed that the crackdown also led to the recovery of stolen crude oil and refined products, marking a significant victory in the fight against oil theft.
The relentless onslaught by the troops resulted in the apprehension of 58 perpetrators involved in oil theft, depriving them of an estimated sum of N668.7 million. The operation saw the destruction of 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.
The recovered loot included 267,700 litres of stolen crude oil, 567,700 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 5,000 litres of DPK. Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba emphasized the unyielding momentum of the troops in combating oil theft, with successful arrests made in Bonny and Ikpoba Local Government Areas of Rivers and Edo States. Furthermore, suspected armed robbers were apprehended, and illegal bunkering activities were foiled in Oshimili South and Ukwa West of Delta and Abia States.
In the South-East region, Operation UDO KA saw the arrest of 15 suspected criminals while successfully repelling attacks by IPOB/ESN criminals in Anambra, Abia, and Imo States. Raids conducted by the troops led to the rescue of kidnapped hostages in Ishielu and Igbo Eze North Local Government Areas of Ebonyi and Enugu States. Notably, the troops neutralized three criminals, rescued five kidnapped hostages, and recovered 14 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammo.
The South-West operation, Operation AWATSE, thwarted armed robbery attacks in Orelope and Olorunsogo Local Government Areas of Oyo State, and apprehended a gunrunner in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun. The troops also facilitated the rescue of 15 kidnapped hostages and the recovery of two vehicles.
All items recovered, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages have been diligently handed over to the relevant authorities for further necessary actions.
This audit of triumphs over criminal activities is a testament to the unwavering dedication and valor of the Nigerian troops, serving as a resolute shield against illicit conduct within the nation’s borders across various regions.
