Combating Oil Theft: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Bunkering Sites and Seize 300,000 Litres of Stolen Products

Combating Oil Theft: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Bunkering Sites and Seize 300,000 Litres of Stolen Products

Combating Oil Theft: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Bunkering Sites and Seize 300,000 Litres of Stolen Products

In a vigorous initiative to thwart the rampant oil theft plaguing the Niger Delta region, the Nigerian Army (NA) has successfully dismantled 13 illegal bunkering sites and seized a staggering 300,000 liters of stolen crude oil.

This comprehensive anti-crude operation, which unfolded between January 20 and 26, 2025, spanned across the states of Edo, Delta, and Rivers, marking a decisive blow against this criminal enterprise.

The operations, executed through a series of meticulously planned raids and interceptions, led to the demobilization of four boats and the deactivation of over 150 makeshift ovens used for illegal refining. Moreover, 15 individuals involved in these illicit activities were apprehended, signaling the army's commitment to restoring order.

In Edo State, the troops made a significant discovery at Ugo Community within the Orhiomwon Local Government Area, where they encountered a vast pool of stolen crude oil. This cache, estimated at an eye-popping 252,000 liters, was accompanied by a pumping machine, hoses, and pipes, all used in the nefarious siphoning operations.

In Delta State, the army intercepted a 30,000-liter capacity DAF Tanker Truck that was siphoning crude oil from a pipeline hidden away in a secluded bush. By the time the truck was captured, it had already illegally extracted more than 15,000 liters of crude oil, further exemplifying the extent of the crime.

Further south in Rivers State, the operations proved equally successful, yielding the confiscation of over 10,000 liters of stolen crude oil, particularly along the winding Imo River corridor. A follow-up operation at an illegal refining site along Odagwa unveiled a disturbing discovery: a pump-action gun was found, highlighting the potential dangers faced by the troops during these engagements.

The raids also uncovered a cluster of three illegal refining sites at the Obiafu Oil Field located in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. Here, the army seized 10 cooking drums, two rolls of hose, and eight reservoirs, all integral to the illegal operations. In a related investigation in the Abalama Community, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, concealed jerrycans filled with illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Dual dual-purpose kerosene (DPK) were revealed, showcasing the extensive efforts to disguise and transport stolen products.

The Nigerian Army's relentless campaign against oil theft and pipeline vandalism is yielding significant results. Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, emphasized this commitment and reassured the public that the days of these criminals, posing as economic saboteurs, are numbered. He implored them to seek legitimate livelihoods or risk facing an intensified military response.

This operation exemplifies the collaborative effort of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, working alongside other sister services, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its vital oil and gas infrastructure from the scourge of illegal activities.

Combating Oil Theft: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Bunkering Sites and Seize 300,000 Litres of Stolen Products
Combating Oil Theft: Troops Dismantle 13 Illegal Bunkering Sites and Seize 300,000 Litres of Stolen Products

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