The Armed Forces of Nigeria have uncovered 53 illegal crude oil refining sites, arrested 81 suspected oil thieves and recovered assorted arms and ammunition in a sweeping security operation across the South-South in January.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Friday during a monthly operational briefing in Abuja, describing the development as a major boost to ongoing efforts to dismantle crude oil theft networks and protect critical national assets.
Onoja said troops of Operation Delta Safe foiled the theft of more than 210,300 litres of crude oil, 66,725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit during the period under review.
According to him, the Air Component of the operation carried out sustained armed reconnaissance over Bakana and Abuloma waterways in Rivers State, where a large barge was intercepted while siphoning petroleum products.
“Target was acquired and engaged accordingly. These actions significantly disrupted illegal refining and smuggling activities in the Niger Delta,” he said.
The military spokesperson added that the operations have contributed to improved security outcomes across other theatres of operation nationwide.
He said crime rates in the South-East had dropped sharply, with troops of Operation Udo Ka killing terrorists, arresting 22 criminals and rescuing 11 kidnap victims within the month.
Onoja also revealed that 80 militants surrendered to troops, while eight Cameroonian nationals were rescued during cross-border patrols along the Bakassi waterways.
Nationwide, the Armed Forces arrested 452 terrorists, their informants and other criminal elements, rescued 284 kidnapped victims and received the surrender of 124 terrorists and their family members in January alone.
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In the North-East, Onoja disclosed that troops neutralised several insurgents, including a senior commander identified as Qaid and his lieutenant, Munzir, during coordinated ground and air operations.
He added that in the North-West, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma provided close air support to troops during a clearance operation in Chukuba village, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, where multiple terrorists were eliminated after their hideouts were engaged.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment to national security, Onoja said troops remained focused and resolute in safeguarding lives, property and the nation’s territorial integrity, despite persistent security challenges.
“Through sustained operations, inter-agency collaboration and community support, we are recording significant progress. We appreciate Nigerians for their timely intelligence and cooperation, which remain critical to operational success,” he said.
He also commended the media for responsible reporting, assuring that the Armed Forces would continue to adapt and respond decisively to evolving security threats across the country.
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