In a bid to curb illegal oil activities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, military troops have arrested 71 individuals suspected of involvement in oil theft and related crimes.
The operations, which spanned from late July to early August, also resulted in the dismantling of 14 unauthorized refining setups and the seizure of more than 33,000 liters of pilfered petroleum products.
These efforts highlight the ongoing battle against economic sabotage that affects local communities and the nation’s revenue.
It is worth noting that the crackdown was led by soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, who targeted hotspots across several states.
In Rivers State, a key area in the Niger Delta known for its vast oil resources, troops uncovered and shut down multiple sites.
Along a stretch near Kilometer 45 in Degema, they deactivated two illegal refining operations and recovered over 22,500 liters of stolen fuel. Nearby, they immobilized two wooden vessels used for transporting illicit goods.
Further inland in Omoku, within the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni area, forces intercepted additional boats carrying sacks filled with crude oil, preventing the material from reaching black market refiners.
Operations extended to the edges of the Imo River, where five more refining sites were taken out of commission. Here, soldiers found and secured around 2,000 liters of refined products stored in drums and pots, along with a hidden pit containing an extra 1,500 liters.
These discoveries in Rivers underscore the challenges faced by residents, where such illegal activities often pollute waterways and disrupt fishing livelihoods that many families depend on.
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The campaign did not stop at Rivers borders. In Bayelsa State, raids in Bassambiri led to the seizure of 16 jerry cans packed with stolen oil from a storage facility.
Deeper in Biseni, near Yenagoa, another site yielded over 1,200 liters of contraband. Joint efforts with other security agencies in the state boosted arrests, showing how collaboration is key to tackling these networks.
Meanwhile, in Delta State, a suspicious vehicle was stopped at Omuseti junction on the road between Kwale and Ozoro. Inside, troops found 31 containers brimming with automotive gas oil, adding to the tally of recovered items.
Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah detailed these achievements in a recent update, emphasizing the troops’ commitment to protecting national assets.
Major General Eric Emekah, the commanding officer of the 6 Division, praised those who provided tips that made the operations successful.
He explained that when legitimate products are mistakenly seized, they are quickly returned to rightful owners after verification. Suspects, however, are turned over to prosecuting authorities to face justice.
Officials have vowed to sustain these patrols, urging citizens to report suspicious activities to help safeguard the region’s future.
By disrupting these operations, the military aims to restore stability and support sustainable development. Local leaders in affected areas have welcomed the moves, hoping they lead to cleaner environments and better opportunities for youth who might otherwise be drawn into crime.
As investigations continue, the arrested individuals could provide leads to dismantle larger syndicates operating in the shadows.
