Troops Seize Over 700,000 Litres of Crude Oil
In a significant crackdown on oil theft, Nigerian troops have recovered 715,325 litres of stolen crude oil and 148,415 litres of illegally refined diesel in the Niger Delta region.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis operation, aimed at curbing illegal activities and safeguarding national resources, also led to the discovery and destruction of 11 dugout pits, five boats, 20 storage tanks, and 31 illegal refining sites.
“We are committed to ending crude oil theft in the Niger Delta,” said Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations. “Our recent operations prevented a loss of approximately $1.5 million.”
Extensive Operation Details
Comprehensive Seizures and Arrests
The troops’ efforts did not stop at recovering crude oil. They also seized 31 cooking ovens, five vehicles, and three mobile phones.
The operation led to the arrest of 20 perpetrators of oil theft and the rescue of 140 kidnapped hostages, highlighting the complex nature of the region’s security challenges.
Throughout the past week, troops also recovered cache of weapons and ammunition, including:
- 56 AK-47 rifles
- 26 locally fabricated guns
- 22 dane guns
- One SMG rifle
- Seven pump-action guns
- One fabricated Beretta pistol
- Five 60mm mortar bombs
- Two small rubber gunpowder devices
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Additionally, they seized 1,244 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 383 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammo, 88 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammo, 78 live cartridges, 24 empty cases of 7.62mm ammo, 21 AK-47 magazines, one Baofeng radio, six vehicles, 11 motorcycles, five bicycles, 38 mobile phones, and N2.7 million in cash.
Strengthening Security Measures
Unified Command and Surveillance
According to Buba, the military is enhancing its operations to curb crude oil theft through a comprehensive and unified command structure involving all security agencies in the Niger Delta.
“The new strategy targets key areas to boost crude oil production, enforce transparency among international oil companies, ensure the integrity of metering systems at flow stations, and track the transportation of crude oil from loading points to destinations,” Buba explained.
Operations also include rigorous surveillance of pipelines, jackets, and wellheads to prevent breaches. This coordinated effort aims to not only stop theft but also ensure the integrity and security of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure.
Significant Achievements and Future Plans
Progress in Broader Security Operations
In addition to combating crude oil theft, troops made significant progress in broader security operations over the past week.
They neutralised 125 individuals involved in criminal activities and arrested 200 suspects, marking a substantial achievement in the fight against crime in the region.
Buba emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and coordinated efforts. “Our mission is to protect our nation’s resources and ensure a safe and secure environment for all citizens,” he stated.
“We will continue to adapt and refine our strategies to meet evolving threats and challenges.”
The military’s recent successes in the Niger Delta demonstrate a strong commitment to ending crude oil theft and enhancing security in the region.
With ongoing efforts and strategic operations, the Nigerian troops aim to secure the nation’s valuable resources and restore peace and stability.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
