The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified its efforts to combat oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region.
Recent operations have resulted in the arrest of 46 suspected oil thieves and the deactivation of 23 illegal refining sites.
The operations were disclosed in a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, on Sunday.
The statement said more than 30,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products have been recovered, adding that large refining equipment had also been destroyed in various locations.
”In Rivers State, six illegal refining the sites were uncovered around Kilometer 45 in Degema LGA, yielding over 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
”In Bayelsa State, the troops raided illegal sites in Biseni and Adibawa (Yenagoa LGA), destroying large refining equipment and recovering over 6,000 litres of stolen crude.
”At Akwa Ibom State, a warehouse in Ukanafun LGA was raided, yielding 131 nylon bags filled with over 3,930 litres of stolen products.
”In Delta, 150 sacks of stolen crude oil were discovered at a tanker park in Kwale, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of the state,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army has emphasised its commitment to eradicating oil theft and environmental degradation caused by illegal refining.
Hensard news reports that the operation is part of a sustained effort to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the Niger Delta region.
