The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified operations against illegal oil refining in the Niger Delta region. Recent efforts have led to the dismantling of numerous illegal refining sites and the recovery of significant quantities of stolen petroleum products.
In one operation, troops destroyed 20 illegal refining sites, arrested eight suspected oil thieves, and deactivated 21 boats used for illicit activities. These actions resulted in the recovery of over 90,000 litres of stolen products. The raids targeted areas such as Buguma in Asari-Toru Local Government Area, where a large tarpaulin storage reservoir and a wooden boat containing over 37,000 litres of stolen condensates were discovered. Additionally, at the Ogajiama axis of Buguma/Bakana, an illegal refining site with 9,000 litres of illegally refined Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) was dismantled, and three locally made boats were intercepted.
In a separate operation, troops impounded 190,000 litres of stolen petroleum products, destroyed 20 illegal refineries, and arrested 11 suspects. These operations, conducted between December 30, 2024, and January 5, 2025, covered areas including Benkrukru at Okordia in Yenagoa Local Government Area, where over 70,000 litres of stolen crude were recovered. Further actions in Rivers State led to the interception of four boats laden with over 22,000 litres of stolen products around Omoku.
These concerted efforts by the Nigerian Army aim to curb economic sabotage and ensure a safe environment for oil exploration and economic activities in the Niger Delta region.
