Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a sweeping offensive against oil theft and pipeline vandalism, troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have uncovered 27 illegal refining sites, arrested 43 suspected oil thieves, and recovered over 161,000 litres of stolen petroleum products across the Niger Delta.
The coordinated operations, conducted between May 26 and June 8, 2025, in synergy with other security agencies, spanned Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Delta States, targeting hotspots of illegal bunkering and crude oil theft.
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division Nigerian Army Port Harcourt, in a statement commended the troops for their resilience and tactical efficiency.
The statement reads, “Our message is clear, the days of unchecked oil theft are over. These operations prove our resolve to dismantle the criminal networks sabotaging Nigeria’s economy.
“In Bayelsa, the army dismantled multiple illicit operations, including a major illegal connection at Wellhead 10 along Zarama-Joinkrama 4, linked to a local refining site. The site housed five cooking ovens, reservoirs, dugout pits, and a generator, alongside 30,000 litres of stolen crude.
“At Biseni Community in Yenagoa, troops discovered two illegal connections, 19 big refining pots, 18 drum pots, and over 27,600 litres of crude oil stored in 460 sacks.
“In Rivers State, the army intercepted multiple boats and barges laden with stolen fuel. One barge held over 27,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit. Troops also uncovered illegal refining sites in Okrika, Ahoada West, Abua/Odual, and Degema, confiscating thousands of litres of PMS, Dual Purpose Kerosene, and crude oil.
“In Akwa Ibom, troops intercepted vehicles including an Infinity Jeep and a Toyota Camry transporting over 2,700 litres of stolen AGO and PMS packed in nylon bags. Three suspects were arrested.
“Delta State also witnessed a major clampdown. Troops raided sites in Warri South, Sapele, and Ugbukoko, uncovering wooden boats, ovens, and vehicles loaded with over 9,000 litres of stolen crude and condensates.
“These criminals are becoming more inventive, hiding stolen products in boats, sacks, vehicles, and even under logs. But we are ahead of them.
“We will continue to patrol the creeks, pipelines, and distribution channels until economic saboteurs are neutralized,” he added.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the integrity of national oil infrastructure and curbing environmental degradation caused by illegal refining.
