14/11/2024
JUST IN: Troops Nab Oil Thieves, Seize Weapons and Stolen Crude in Major Niger Delta Operation
From October 21 to 27, 2024, troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, intensified their crackdown on illegal oil bunkering across Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom states, leading to multiple arrests and significant seizures.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, reported the extensive operations resulted in the deactivation of 34 illegal refining sites, the destruction of 19 boats and eight vehicles, and the arrest of 27 suspected oil thieves. Over 215,000 liters of stolen petroleum products were seized across the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
In Rivers State, targeted operations in Abesa, Bukuma, and Bille in Degema Local Government Area led to the shutdown of three illegal refineries and the recovery of over 100,000 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). In Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, troops seized arms and ammunition from a suspect involved in oil theft.
Similar outcomes were achieved in Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom, where troops intercepted wooden boats loaded with stolen crude, dismantled illegal refining operations, and confiscated equipment linked to oil theft.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, commended the troops for their commitment, urging ongoing vigilance to secure the region and support safe socio-economic activities.