Nigerian Army Cracks Down on Oil Theft in Niger Delta, Seizes Over 591,000 Litres of Stolen Oil Products

Strategic Insights -

The Nigerian Army has launched a decisive operation against oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region, resulting in the destruction of 21 illegal refining sites, the seizure of over 591,000 litres of stolen oil products, and the arrest of 36 suspected oil thieves. The operation, led by the 6 Division, was conducted across multiple locations in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states. The Army's efforts have significantly disrupted the activities of oil thieves, who have been causing significant economic losses to the country.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army has destroyed 21 illegal refining sites and seized over 591,000 litres of stolen oil products in the Niger Delta region.
  • 36 suspected oil thieves were arrested during the operation, which was conducted across multiple locations in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states.
  • The operation resulted in the recovery of several items, including pumping machines, boreholes, electric cables, and sockets, which were being used to facilitate oil theft.
  • A total of 1,428 bags of stolen products, containing over 21,500 litres of crude oil, were confiscated by the Army.
  • Five boats used for oil theft were demobilized, and 38 drum pots and 15 drum receivers were destroyed.
  • In Bayelsa State, a DAF XF380 Tanker truck loaded with 45,000 litres of stolen AGO was intercepted by the Army, and three suspected oil thieves were apprehended.
  • The operation also resulted in the recovery of over 10,000 litres of stolen products in Bayelsa State and over 1,000 litres of stolen crude in Akwa Ibom State.

Statistics:

  • 21 illegal refining sites were destroyed by the Army.
  • Over 591,000 litres of stolen oil products were seized.
  • 36 suspected oil thieves were arrested.
  • 1,428 bags of stolen products containing over 21,500 litres of crude oil were confiscated.
  • Five boats used for oil theft were demobilized.
  • 38 drum pots and 15 drum receivers were destroyed.
  • 45,000 litres of stolen AGO were recovered in Bayelsa State.
  • Over 10,000 litres of stolen products were recovered in Bayelsa State.
  • Over 1,000 litres of stolen crude were recovered in Akwa Ibom State.
  • Over 16,500 litres of stolen crude were recovered in Akwa Ibom State.

Sources:

  • A statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Sunday.