The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has made significant strides in the fight against oil theft and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region, arresting 25 suspected oil thieves, including four members of the disbanded Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and dismantling 23 illegal refining sites.
Between January 12 and 19, 2025, troops conducted a series of operations across the region, leading to the recovery of over 45,000 liters of stolen oil products and the destruction of several boats and illegal refining equipment. The operations, executed in partnership with other security services, focused on various locations within the Niger Delta, including Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom states.
According to Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, the operations were instrumental in curbing the activities of oil thieves and criminal elements. In one notable operation, troops intercepted a truck carrying over 15,000 liters of stolen oil products along the East-West Road in Rivers State.
In addition to seizing stolen goods, troops also dismantled illegal refining operations. In Degema Local Government Area (LGA), they deactivated seven refining sites, confiscating over 12,000 liters of stolen oil and several boats used in illegal activities. Further operations in Bille, Imo Riverside, and the Oga-Ama corridor led to the destruction of refining sites, the recovery of stolen oil, and the confiscation of various criminal tools, including motorcycles and boats.
In Delta State, a targeted operation led to the arrest of four suspected IPOB members and the destruction of five dugout pits used for oil theft. Additionally, troops intercepted motorcycles transporting stolen oil products from Abor Community Junction to Kwale in Ndokwa West LGA.
In Bayelsa, security forces seized two vehicles loaded with illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), further highlighting the extent of the oil theft network operating across the region.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding the 6 Division, commended the troops for their hard work and success in disrupting criminal activities. He encouraged the forces to intensify efforts, particularly in denying criminal elements such as IPOB any operational foothold in the region.
The ongoing operations reflect the Army’s commitment to securing the Niger Delta, combating economic sabotage, and ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions.
