The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in partnership with security agencies, has made significant strides in its intensified operations against oil theft in the Niger Delta.

According to a statement by Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, operations conducted from October 28 to November 3, 2024, led to the dismantling of 29 illegal refining sites, the arrest of 24 suspects, the seizure of 14 boats, and the recovery of more than 700,000 litres of stolen oil products.

In Rivers State, a major success came when troops intercepted a large wooden boat carrying over 150,000 litres of stolen crude near Kula in Akuku-Toru LGA, resulting in the arrest of six suspects.
An additional boat containing 50,000 litres of crude was seized nearby, and three illegal refining sites were destroyed, yielding another 20,000 litres of stolen automotive gas oil (AGO). Operations in the Kay and Abesa areas saw ten more illegal sites dismantled, with over 400,000 litres of illegally refined AGO confiscated.

Acting on intelligence, troops at Rukpoku intercepted two modified tanker trucks, each with a 15,000-litre capacity, being used to siphon products from a pipeline.

The crackdown extended to areas including Imo River, Bille in Degema, Egbelom Forest, and the Obiafu Oil Field in Omoku, resulting in multiple arrests and the shutdown of several illegal refining sites.

In Bayelsa State, operations along Boma Creek led to the interception of boats transporting 2,500 litres of stolen products, while another illegal refinery containing 4,500 litres of crude was uncovered at Obughene Creek.

A similar operation at West Boma Creek saw the destruction of a site storing 3,000 litres of stolen products.

Troops in Akwa Ibom seized two Toyota Camry vehicles concealing illegally refined AGO in nylon bags, leading to the arrest of two suspects.

Additional operations in Delta State intercepted a tricycle transporting stolen iron pipes in Kwale and uncovered a storage site in Patani with 40 jerricans of stolen products.

Troops also intercepted a boat with 200 sacks of premium motor spirit at Uro Community waterways.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, praised the troops for their dedication and urged them to sustain the offensive.

He also called on community leaders to support efforts against illegal oil bunkering, emphasizing the importance of local involvement in safeguarding the region