By Olukayode Idowu
Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified anti-oil theft and illegal refining operations across the Niger Delta.
In a statement Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 6 Division Lieut. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma said between November 11 and 17, 2024, the forces recorded significant successes, including the deactivation of 46 illegal refining sites, the seizure of 47 boats used for transporting stolen oil, and the recovery of over 95,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. Twenty-eight suspected oil thieves were also apprehended.
He said in Rivers State, troops acted on intelligence regarding vandalism along the Oando pipeline in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA). Armed vandals exchanged fire with the troops but fled after being overwhelmed. Soldiers recovered an AK-47 rifle, a loaded magazine, and additional ammunition.
Danjuma said in Obiafu-Ndoni, a major bust intercepted wooden boat carrying 28,320 litres of stolen crude oil. Seven suspects were arrested. Operations in Buguma, Asari Toru LGA, dismantled illegal refining sites, confiscating 9,500 litres of stolen products.
He said further efforts in Degema LGA, including Tuma and Krakrama areas, led to the destruction of numerous wooden and fibre boats and the recovery of 10,500 litres of stolen Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). In Bille, a wooden boat with 2,500 litres of stolen products was intercepted, while in Obiafu Oil Field and along the Imo River stretch, troops dismantled illegal refining sites, destroying 16 boats and recovering over 19,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
In Bayelsa, operations in Ekeremor and Nembe LGAs resulted in the deactivation of illegal refining sites and the recovery of over 12,500 litres of stolen oil. Danjuma said A significant seizure included 600 vandalized Shell Petroleum Development Company pipes.
In Delta troops intercepted a Sienna bus carrying stolen condensates near Oyede in Isoko South LGA. The driver abandoned the vehicle upon sighting troops. A pipeline breach in Afiesere, Ughelli North LGA, was also reported and secured.
In Akwa Ibom, several vehicles carrying 2,160 litres of stolen AGO were intercepted in Ikot Abasi LGA, leading to the arrest of five suspects.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and dismantling criminal networks. He assured the public that operations would persist to bolster oil output and secure national assets.