The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, working alongside other security agencies, has significantly intensified its operations to curb the widespread issue of crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region.
Between December 16 and December 22, 2024, these intensified efforts culminated in the dismantling of 37 illegal refining sites, the apprehension of 10 suspected oil thieves, and the recovery of over 130,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, including crude oil, Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
These achievements were disclosed through a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations. The statement detailed the remarkable outcomes of the ongoing operations in various local government areas across the Niger Delta.
In Obiafu, located in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) Local Government Area of Rivers State, nine illegal refining sites were destroyed during these operations. The troops confiscated 176 cooking drums, several pumping machines, and over 60,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. Four individuals suspected to be involved in these illicit activities were apprehended at the scene.
Similarly, in the Asari-Toru Local Government Area, troops dismantled three illegal refining sites and a large wooden boat. These efforts resulted in the recovery of 24,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. In the Degema Local Government Area, three boats carrying over 16,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined petroleum products were intercepted and destroyed.
Further operations extended to Ozorchi Forest in the Abua/Odual Local Government Area and areas along the Imo River. Here, troops destroyed multiple illegal refining setups and confiscated an additional 15,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. This underscored the army’s commitment to rooting out illegal activities in even the most remote areas of the region.
In Bayelsa State, efforts were focused on foiling pipeline vandalism attempts and shutting down illegal refining operations. For instance, in the Kunsho Creek area of the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil were seized. Elsewhere, in the Ekeremor Local Government Area, troops uncovered an abandoned attempt to compromise a critical pipeline belonging to the Shell Petroleum Development Company.
In Delta State, the operations uncovered more innovative methods employed by oil thieves. Troops intercepted a tanker truck set up to siphon crude oil from a pipeline in the Obiukwole Community of Ethiope East Local Government Area. Upon inspection, a concealed hose was found connecting the tanker to the pipeline. This resulted in the arrest of four suspects linked to the incident.
Meanwhile, in Akwa Ibom State, extensive patrols were conducted across rural regions and waterways to deter potential criminal activities. These patrols demonstrated the army’s determination to prevent illegal activities and maintain the security of critical oil infrastructure.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops for their unwavering commitment and professionalism. He emphasized the need for continued vigilance and reiterated the military’s resolve to ensure that criminal elements do not regain a foothold in the Niger Delta region.
The operations have drawn widespread praise for their effectiveness and are part of broader efforts to safeguard the region’s resources and maintain economic stability. Residents and stakeholders have expressed optimism, hoping these sustained efforts will lead to long-term security and prosperity in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
