The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has launched a series of operations to combat oil theft in the Niger Delta region. According to Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the operations resulted in the destruction of 34 illegal refining sites, the arrest of 11 suspected oil thieves, and the seizure of over 80,650 litres of stolen products.
The operations, which took place between November 18 and 24, 2024, were conducted in collaboration with other security agencies in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, and Akwa Ibom states. The Army’s efforts have yielded significant results, including:
- Dismantling of Illegal Refining Sites: 34 illegal refining sites were destroyed, including 20 sites in Rivers State alone.
- Arrest of Suspected Oil Thieves: 11 suspected oil thieves were arrested and handed over to the relevant authorities.
- Seizure of Stolen Products: Over 80,650 litres of stolen products were seized, including crude oil, condensate, and other petroleum products.
- Deactivation of Boats and Equipment: 19 boats and 180 cooking drum pots were deactivated, while 29 metal container receivers and several vehicles and motorcycles were seized.
The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops for their resilience and assured that the Division would continue to sustain the ongoing operations to ensure an increase in oil and gas production. Abdussalam stated that the efforts would be sustained to effectively thwart the intentions of the criminal elements and economic saboteurs operating in the region.
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