The Joint Task Force, known as Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), has uncovered 14 locations where crude oil is being illegally refined in Rivers, Nigeria. Rear Adm. John Okeke, the Commander, revealed this discovery and stated that the illegal refining site on Ataba Island near Bonny Island in Rivers will be dismantled.
The Commander visited the site, emphasizing that it was detected through intelligence information. While no arrests have been made, a combined effort involving the Navy, Army, Air Force, Police, NSCDC, the DIA, and others will ensure that the Niger Delta does not become a safe haven for criminals.
Addressing the issue, Rear Adm. John Okeke stated, “We are going to make it very difficult for them. Nobody wins alone without collaboration. With teamwork, we will achieve significant progress in combating illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism.”
Revealing the shocking discovery, he mentioned, “Today we are in Ataba Island, close to Bonny Island, Rivers State, moving towards Akwa Ibom. What we discovered here is shocking: about 14 massive cooking sites, one of them still hot indicating recent activity.”
Emphasizing the ongoing efforts, the Commander promised to continue surveillance and take action against economic saboteurs in the region. He expressed gratitude that significant progress was achieved within 24 hours and urged criminals to engage in legitimate businesses, cautioning that those involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering will face consequences.
