Emmanuel OchayiAmidst escalating concerns, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has revealed 127 incidents of crude oil theft between December 2 and 8 within the oil-producing regions This was revealed through a report shared on Tuesday.
In a candid acknowledgment of the intensifying crisis, the NNPCL disclosed startling figures of unauthorized refineries, illegal connections, vessel infractions, pipeline vandalism, and illegal storage sites uncovered during the reported week.
This surge in nefarious activities spanned Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Abia, and Imo states, underscoring the widespread reach of the issue.
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“Pipeline International Nigeria Limited,” “Maton Nigeria Limited,” “Tantita Security Services Limited,” and prominent entities such as the “Shell Petroleum Development Company” and “Government Security Agencies” were cited in connection with these incidents, painting a complex network involved in these unlawful operations.
The report, punctuated by arrests and discoveries, included vivid details of apprehended individuals like Benard Innocent and Adam Akpobome Godstime, whose involvements in crude oil theft were linked to specific regions within Delta state.
Arms, ammunition, and mystic paraphernalia were reportedly found at the sites, emphasizing the dangers and organized nature of these criminal activities.
Additionally, the report highlighted an intercepted vessel, embroiled in suspicious activities off the coast of Ondo State. This vessel, under the radar for its questionable maneuvers in Nigeria and Ghana, now detained by the Nigerian Navy, raised serious concerns about its involvement in unauthorized oil-related activities.
As Nigeria charts its course for 2024, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, stressed the nation’s commitment to bolstering oil production.
He emphasized collaboration with stakeholders, promising a competitive environment for international oil companies, including Chevron, to achieve the targeted 1.7 million barrels per day, crucial for implementing the 2024 budget.
“Our target for 2024 is to ensure that we work with stakeholders… not only for Chevron but for other international oil companies (IOCs) as well,” remarked Minister Lokpobiri during the Chevron Nigeria Limited Stakeholders’ Interactive Session.
The spotlight on Nigeria’s production plans contrasts sharply with the grim reality of ongoing oil theft, underscoring the nation’s uphill battle in safeguarding its resources and achieving its oil production targets.
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