Troops from the 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), collaborated with other security agencies. Together, they arrested 23 suspected oil thieves, dismantled 13 illegal refineries, and seized over 180,000 litres of stolen products.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, shared this update in a statement.
In Rivers State, troops launched operations in the Orachi/Okolomade area, Abia/Odual Local Government Area (LGA). There, they uncovered over 45,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO). The AGO was hidden in sacks at various locations within a dense forest.
Moreover, troops destroyed an active illegal refining site in Obiafo, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA). They recovered over 28,000 litres of stolen crude from two reservoirs. While they arrested one suspect, others fled when they saw the troops. In addition, they seized an 800-meter-long hose and a pumping machine.
Meanwhile, in Peterside Community, Bonny LGA, troops uncovered another illegal refinery. They seized three pots, receivers, and over 10,000 litres of stolen products.
During operations along Obrikom-Omoku, troops intercepted two wooden boats carrying over 3,000 litres of illegally refined AGO. As a result, they arrested seven suspects in connection to the theft.
In Akwa Ibom State, following reliable intelligence, troops intercepted a tanker truck (Registration No. 1430 LA) filled with 39,994 litres of stolen products. They stopped the truck along the Itu-Calabar highway in Itu LGA and arrested two suspects.
In Bayelsa State, troops discovered an illegal refinery in Biseni, Yenagoa LGA. They recovered over 2,600 litres of AGO in sacks. Additionally, in Adibawa, YELGA, they seized over 2,500 litres of stolen crude and 1,100 litres of illegally refined AGO in sacks. They also recovered eight wheelbarrows used in these illicit activities.
Ongoing Efforts Against Economic Sabotage
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, urged troops to intensify their efforts against economic sabotage. He also called on the public to support security agencies by sharing credible information on criminal activities in their communities.
