In a significant blow to illegal artisanal refinery activities and associated crimes, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, have successfully executed a series of operations in the Niger Delta Region.
The operations, which were conducted simultaneously across Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states, resulted in the destruction of over 115 illegal refining sites, the seizure of 66 boats, and the arrest of 22 suspects. Additionally, troops recovered 27 stolen pipes, 4 pumping machines, and over 170,000 stolen products, with other ancillary items deactivated.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, the operations were aimed at denying criminal elements and economic saboteurs freedom of action in the region.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, commended the troops for their efforts and urged them to maintain zero tolerance for illegal artisanal refinery activities and associated crimes. He also called on communities to join forces with the military to combat these criminalities, which have devastating effects on their environment and the nation’s economy.
The Nigerian Army’s crackdown on illegal refineries is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure security and stability in the Niger Delta Region. The military’s operations have been praised by local residents and stakeholders, who have expressed gratitude for the efforts to curb economic sabotage and protect the environment.
