Nigerian Army Destroys 21 Illegal Refineries, Intercepts Large Quantities of Stolen Petroleum Products

Strategic Insights -

Nigerian Army troops, operating in partnership with other security agencies, have made significant strides in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region. From April 28 to May 11, 2023, the 6 Division, under the command of Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Emekah, launched a series of operations in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states. These efforts resulted in the destruction of 21 illegal refineries, the apprehension of 36 suspects, and the recovery of 591,000 liters of stolen petroleum products.

Key Takeaways:

  • The operation, conducted in partnership with other security agencies, was carried out in Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta states, targeting oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
  • In Rivers State, troops dismantled five illegal refineries, seized over 350,000 liters of illicitly refined Automotive Gasoline Oil, and destroyed over 100,000 liters of stolen crude.
  • In Bayelsa, troops seized a tanker truck loaded with 45,000 liters of stolen AGO and apprehended three oil thieves.
  • In Delta State, troops intercepted two Toyota Camry vehicles carrying over 1,250 liters of illegally refined AGO and discovered over 1,175 liters of stolen crude concealed in the bush.
  • Troops also apprehended 36 suspects and handed them over to the appropriate agencies for legal proceedings.
  • All recovered products were confiscated in line with operational protocols, and firearms and ammunition were found in some vehicles.
  • Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Emekah has continued visiting key areas in the Niger Delta to ensure sustained operations against economic sabotage and criminal activities in the region.

Statistics:

  • 591,000 liters of stolen petroleum products recovered
  • 21 illegal refineries destroyed
  • 36 suspects apprehended
  • 8,000 liters of stolen crude destroyed in Rivers State
  • 21,500 liters of stolen crude seized in Imo River operations
  • 45,000 liters of stolen AGO seized in Bayelsa
  • 1,250 liters of illegally refined AGO seized in Delta State
  • 16,500 liters of stolen crude intercepted in Akwa Ibom

Sources:

  • Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations

*Rivers State Government*

  • Bayelsa State Government
  • Akwa Ibom State Government
  • Delta State Government