The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has intensified its campaign against oil theft, dismantling 13 illegal refineries and arresting 15 suspects in a week-long operation across the Niger Delta. The operation, which ran from January 20 to 26, 2025, also led to the recovery of 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Jonah Danjuma, outlined the success of the operations, which spanned Rivers, Delta, Edo, and Akwa Ibom states.
“Troops of 6 Division have continued to tighten the noose against oil thieves, with numerous successes resonating across the joint operations area,” Danjuma said. The dismantling of illegal bunkering hubs, demobilisation of four boats, deactivation of over 150 locally made ovens, and seizure of stolen crude oil and refined products were among the significant achievements.
- Edo State: At Ugo Community in Orhionmwon LGA, troops discovered a vandalised point containing 252,000 litres of stolen crude oil and recovered various equipment, including a pumping machine and hoses.
- Delta State: A 30,000-litre tanker siphoning crude oil from a pipeline in Ethiope West LGA was intercepted, with over 15,000 litres already stolen.
- Rivers State: Along the Imo River corridor, 10,000 litres of stolen products were confiscated, and an illegal refining site was uncovered near the Owaza area.
- Bayelsa State: In Brass LGA, troops dismantled two illegal refining sites and seized over 5,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
- Akwa Ibom State: At Ikot Ekpene, 30 polythene bags filled with stolen AGO were recovered during a raid on a storage facility.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, praised the troops for their dedication and warned criminal elements against sabotaging the nation’s economy.
“The days of criminal elements masquerading as economic saboteurs are numbered. They must either turn a new leaf and embrace legitimate means of livelihood or be ready to face a renewed onslaught,” Emekah stated.
This operation underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to curbing oil theft and protecting critical economic infrastructure in the Niger Delta. The crackdown serves as a stern warning to illegal refiners and vandals to desist from such activities or face the consequences.