Troops Dismantle 42 Illegal Refineries, Recover 197,000 Litres Of Stolen Oil

Efforts to clamp down on crude oil theft in the Niger Delta Region (NDR) have achieved remarkable success as troops intensified anti-bunkering operations. Between December 9-15, 2024, military forces deactivated 42 illegal oil refinery sites, arrested 29 suspected oil thieves, and confiscated over 197,000 litres of stolen crude oil, according to a statement from the Nigerian Army.

In addition to the stolen crude, security forces seized 32 boats, 12 vehicles, and eight motorcycles believed to have been used in acts of economic sabotage.

Key Operations in Bayelsa State

Bayelsa State witnessed major operations targeting illegal refining activities.

Biseni Forest, Yenagoa LGA: Troops dismantled four newly established illegal refining sites and recovered 37,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Benkrukru, Okordia Forest: Authorities seized 29,900 litres of stolen crude and 2,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) near the Oando Wellhead.
Nembe LGA: Over 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil were recovered from dismantled illegal refining sites in Olukama and Sabasuo areas.
Igbomotoru Creek, Southern Ijaw LGA: A wooden boat hidden in the creek and containing over 1,000 litres of stolen crude oil was intercepted.

Highlights from Rivers State

Operations in Rivers State further demonstrated the troops’ resolve:

Kula, Akuku-Toru LGA: Security forces dismantled three illegal refinery sites, recovering over 30,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Bille, Degema LGA: Two illegal refinery sites and two boats carrying 4,000 litres of stolen crude oil were destroyed.
Imo River: Thirteen illegal refinery sites were deactivated, with over 28,500 litres of stolen oil confiscated.

Achievements in Delta State

Troops also recorded significant success in Delta State:

Aronwon Community, Warri North LGA: One active illegal refinery was destroyed, alongside five ovens, a boat, and 5,000 litres of illegally refined AGO.
Uvwie LGA: Three tanker trucks loaded with suspected illegally refined AGO were intercepted, resulting in the arrest of five suspects.

Leadership Commendation

The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops for their unwavering efforts. He reaffirmed that these operations would continue in line with the objectives set for December 2024.