Military Destroys 71 Illegal Refineries, Seizes 788,400 Litres Of Stolen Crude Oil

Nigerian Troops Seize 788,400 Litres of Stolen Crude Oil in Niger Delta

In a week-long operation, Nigerian troops have destroyed 71 illegal crude oil refining sites in the Niger Delta region.

The military also seized 788,400 litres of stolen crude oil and arrested 45 individuals involved in illegal oil activities. This is part of the military’s ongoing effort to clamp down on oil theft and secure the nation’s resources.

Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, shared the details in a recent statement. “We are committed to disrupting criminal networks and denying them access to crude oil, which is the nation’s primary revenue source,” said Buba.

Crude Oil Theft Targeted by Nigerian Military

The issue of crude oil theft has been a long-standing problem in the Niger Delta, and the Nigerian military has stepped up its efforts to tackle the illegal trade.

The destruction of illegal refining sites and the seizure of stolen crude oil are aimed at stopping the activities that cause significant revenue loss for the government.

READ ALSO: Nigeria’s Crude Oil Production Declines To 1.4mbpd In Q2 – NBS

“We have destroyed 71 illegal refining sites, confiscated over 788,000 litres of stolen crude oil, and arrested 45 criminals linked to these operations,” Buba added. These operations, according to him, represent a critical aspect of the government’s broader security measures.

Seized Crude Oil and Equipment

During the raids, Nigerian troops not only recovered crude oil but also seized various illegal refining equipment. Among the confiscated items were 35 boats, nine dugout pits, 57 storage tanks, 32 drums, 20 cooking ovens, and other tools used for crude oil refining.

In addition to crude oil, the military recovered 28,995 litres of illegally refined diesel, 300 litres of kerosene, and 3,000 litres of petrol. Vehicles, motorcycles, and mobile phones used by the criminals were also seized.

“The success of this operation is proof of our ongoing commitment to stop crude oil theft and recover stolen resources,” Buba emphasised.

Arrests and Further Operations

Alongside the seizure of crude oil, Nigerian troops neutralised 159 individuals involved in various criminal activities and arrested 174 others. The operation, which extended beyond crude oil theft, also led to the rescue of 188 kidnapped hostages.

Buba assured that the military is focused on eliminating criminal elements throughout the Niger Delta and the entire country. “We will continue our efforts to secure the region and make it difficult for criminals to profit from stolen crude oil,” he said.

The Broader Security Strategy

The crackdown on crude oil theft is part of a broader security effort by the Nigerian military to address issues of terrorism and insecurity across the country. Recent operations have also targeted terror groups, resulting in the elimination of key terrorist leaders and the recovery of weapons.

According to Buba, “Our troops have recovered over 151 assorted weapons and 12,000 rounds of ammunition, including AK-47 rifles and RPGs. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of every Nigerian.”

Securing Nigeria’s Crude Oil Industry

The importance of crude oil to Nigeria’s economy cannot be overstated. Oil theft has caused significant financial losses, and the Nigerian government is determined to put an end to it. By destroying illegal refineries and recovering stolen crude oil, the military is playing a vital role in protecting the country’s primary revenue source.

Buba concluded by reaffirming the military’s dedication: “We will continue to protect Nigeria’s crude oil resources and maintain peace and stability in the Niger Delta and beyond.”

The Nigerian military’s fight against crude oil theft remains ongoing, with more operations planned in the near future.