– Recovers 60,000 litres of stolen crude
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Troops of the Nigerian Army 6 Division Port Harcourt, in collaboration with other security agencies, have dismantled 32 illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta, recovering over 60,000 litres of stolen crude in a major crackdown on economic saboteurs.
The operation, which spanned from January 6th to 12, 2025, is part of a larger effort to curb oil theft and illicit refining activities in the region.
Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations in a statement highlighted the recovery of stolen crude, the destruction of illegal refineries, and the apprehension of 15 suspects involved in the illicit activities.
The statement reads, “In Rivers State, seven illegal refining sites in the Bille area of Degema LGA were destroyed, with over 20,000 litres of stolen crude recovered.
*Additionally, ten illegal refineries along the Imo River were deactivated, resulting in the seizure of 19,000 litres of stolen products. At Odagwa, three boats carrying over 12,000 litres of stolen crude were intercepted.
“In Bayelsa State, troops uncovered and destroyed an illegal refinery in Southern Ijaw LGA, seizing 1,500 litres of stolen crude from a wooden boat. Further operations led to the interception of three boats loaded with stolen crude, as well as the recovery of products in other parts of the region.”
Reacting on the development, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, praised the troops for their success in disrupting the illegal refining network.
“This operation is a critical step in securing our nation’s oil resources and preventing further economic sabotage. By dismantling these illegal refineries, we are restoring order and promoting a safer environment for legitimate oil exploration.”
