The Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has destroyed 21 illegal refineries, apprehended 36 suspects, and recovered 591,000 liters of stolen petroleum products in the Niger Delta region.
The operation, which spanned from April 28 to May 11, 2025, was carried out in partnership with other security agencies in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states, focusing on curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, shared that the military made significant strides during the operation.
In Rivers State, troops traced a 15-kilometer hose leading to an illegal loading point near the Orashi Game Reserve/Okolomade area in Abua/Odual Local Government Area.
This discovery resulted in the dismantling of five illegal refineries and the seizure of more than 350,000 liters of illicitly refined Automotive Gasoline Oil.
Additionally, over 100,000 liters of stolen crude were destroyed, and equipment, including pumping machines and electric cables, were recovered.
The troops also targeted illegal refining operations along the Imo River, where they dismantled seven sites, seized 1,428 bags of crude oil (estimated at over 21,500 liters), and destroyed five boats used in the illegal operations.
In other operations across Rivers State, military personnel intercepted a truck carrying 20,000 liters of stolen products at Elelenwa, Eleme Local Government Area.
In Bonny, a boat containing over 10,000 liters of stolen crude was uncovered through local intelligence.
In Bayelsa, troops seized a tanker truck loaded with 45,000 liters of stolen AGO (Automotive Gas Oil) and apprehended three oil thieves.
Similarly, in Akwa Ibom, troops intercepted a tanker suspected of carrying more than 16,500 liters of stolen crude.
The driver fled the scene upon seeing the military.
In Delta State, two Toyota Camry vehicles carrying over 1,250 liters of illegally refined AGO were intercepted.
Troops also discovered over 1,175 liters of stolen crude concealed in the bush in Warri South Local Government Area.
During security checks, firearms and ammunition were found in some vehicles.
All arrested suspects were handed over to the appropriate agencies for legal proceedings, and all recovered products were confiscated in line with operational protocols.
Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division, has continued visiting key areas in the Niger Delta to ensure sustained operations against economic sabotage and criminal activities in the region, boosting troop morale and reinforcing the ongoing crackdown.