In a series of operations conducted across the Niger Delta Region from December 16 to 22, 2024, troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have sustained their gains against oil thieves. The operations, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, resulted in significant seizures and arrests.
The troops recorded key gains in their operations, including the dismantling of 37 illegal refining sites. One notable operation took place in Rivers State, where a cluster of 9 illegal refining sites with 176 cooking drums and several pumping machines were destroyed. Additionally, over 130,000 litres of stolen products were recovered, including crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK).
The operations also resulted in the arrest of 10 suspected oil thieves and the seizure of several boats, mobile phones, and other equipment.
In Rivers State, troops recovered over 60,000 litres of stolen products, while in Bayelsa State, they thwarted an attempt to compromise a Shell Petroleum Development Company pipeline and recovered 2,000 litres of stolen crude. In Delta State, troops intercepted a tanker truck attempting to siphon crude oil from a pipeline and arrested four suspected oil thieves.
Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, commended the troops for their achievements and charged them to sustain the tempo against oil thieves. He reassured that criminals will not be allowed to have any foothold in the region. The success of the operations is a testament to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure and resources.
