The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in a collaborative operation with other security agencies, has dismantled 32 illegal refineries, arrested 15 suspected oil thieves, and recovered over 60,000 litres of stolen petroleum products in the Niger Delta region.
The operations, conducted between January 6 and 12, 2025, spanned several states in the region, targeting critical areas of oil theft and sabotage, according to a statement released on Sunday night by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma.
The statement noted that troops identified and destroyed seven illegal refining sites in Degema Local Government Area, particularly around the Bille area.
Similar raids along the Imo River stretch led to the deactivation of 10 refining sites, the destruction of equipment, and the recovery of over 19,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
Widespread Operations Across LGAs
In Odagwa, Etche Local Government Area, troops intercepted three boats loaded with 12,000 litres of stolen crude oil, arresting three suspects.
Additionally, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, a site containing over 1,200 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and 1,600 litres of crude oil stored in sacks was dismantled.
At Buguma in Asari-Toru LGA, two refining sites were shut down, and five suspects were apprehended with a wooden boat carrying 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil.
Further raids in Bayelsa State uncovered illegal operations in Baberegbene, Southern Ijaw LGA, where a wooden boat containing 1,500 litres of crude oil was intercepted.
Troops also dismantled additional sites at Emago-Kugbo and Oluasiri in Nembe LGA, recovering undisclosed quantities of stolen products.
In Delta and Akwa Ibom states, the Army maintained a strong presence to disrupt economic sabotage, with Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, commending troops for their success.
Commitment to National Economic Security
Major General Abdussalam emphasized the importance of sustained efforts in curbing oil theft and ensuring a conducive environment for oil exploration.
“Our operations are focused on denying criminals freedom of action and safeguarding national economic resources,” he stated.
The suspects and recovered items have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and prosecution, as the Army pledged continued vigilance in the region.
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