ABUJA — The Nigerian Army Oil Theft Crackdown resulted in 46 suspected oil thieves arrested and 23 illegal refining sites deactivated across the Niger Delta. Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 6 Division, stated operations pressure criminals. Over 30,000 litres of stolen crude and refined products were recovered.
Oil theft and pipeline vandalism harm Nigeria’s economy and environment. These activities reduce national revenue and cause ecological damage in the Niger Delta. The Nigerian Army Oil Theft Crackdown targets these criminal networks to protect oil assets. These ongoing operations aid regional stability.
Niger Delta Operations Against Illegal Refining
Operations in Rivers State uncovered six illegal refining sites. These yielded over 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Troops dismantled a camp with four ovens and four drums holding over 2,500 litres of stolen Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). Bayelsa State saw troops raid illegal sites, destroying equipment and recovering over 6,000 litres of stolen crude. Akwa Ibom and Delta States also reported significant recoveries.
Focus on Niger Delta Operations and Security
Lt. Col. Danjuma stated the army’s determination to stop economic sabotage. “These arrests and seizures reflect our resolve to stop economic sabotage and ensure the safety and integrity of oil facilities,” he said. The army will continue operations until oil theft, sabotage, and environmental damage are controlled. This action stabilizes the region and protects national assets.
The Nigerian Army works to eradicate oil theft. These Nigerian Army Oil Theft Crackdown efforts protect the nation’s economic lifeline. Coordinated operations use intelligence to dismantle criminal networks. These Niger Delta Operations demonstrate intent to restore order and viability.
Destroying illegal refining equipment stops processing and distribution of stolen petroleum. The army uses intelligence to find and dismantle sites. Military presence deters criminals. These operations improve security and resource management. The commitment protects Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
By Abdullah Korede
