As part of its intensified efforts to combat oil theft, the Nigerian Army (NA) has dismantled 13 illegal bunkering sites and seized over 300,000 litres of stolen crude oil across the Niger Delta.
The operations, conducted between January 20 and 26, 2025, spanned Edo, Delta, and Rivers States, resulting in the deactivation of four boats, destruction of over 150 locally fabricated ovens, and the arrest of 15 suspects. These actions were carried out through coordinated raids and interceptions.
In Edo State, troops discovered a pool of stolen crude oil, estimated at 252,000 litres, in Ugo Community, Orhionmwon Local Government Area. Equipment, including a pumping machine, hoses, and pipes, was also recovered.
In Delta State, a DAF Tanker Truck with a 30,000-litre capacity was intercepted while siphoning crude oil from a pipeline in a bush. The tanker, which had already collected over 15,000 litres of stolen crude, was confiscated.
In Rivers State, operations along the Imo River corridor led to the recovery of over 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil. Troops also dismantled an illegal refining site in Odagwa, recovering a pump-action gun during follow-up actions.
Additionally, three illegal refining sites were dismantled near the Obiafu Oil Field in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. Items recovered included 10 cooking drums, two rolls of hoses, and eight reservoirs. In Abalama Community, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, troops uncovered concealed jerrycans filled with illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to eradicating oil theft and pipeline vandalism. He warned criminal elements to abandon illegal activities and seek legitimate livelihoods, assuring that continued operations would target economic saboteurs.
This operation, carried out by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with sister security agencies, underscores the military’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure.