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Theft

Nigerian Army Dismantles 21 Illegal Refineries, Arrests 36 Oil Thieves

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have embarked on a series of operations to crack down on oil thieves and pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta region. Between April 28 and May 11, 2023, the troops conducted several operations, resulting in the dismantling of 21 illegal refineries, the arrest of 36 crude oil thieves, and the confiscation of over 591,000 litres of stolen products.

Key Takeaways:

  • 21 illegal refineries were dismantled across the Niger Delta region.
  • 36 crude oil thieves were arrested in various operations conducted between April 28 and May 11, 2023.
  • Over 591,000 litres of stolen products were confiscated.
  • In Rivers State, troops discovered a 15-kilometre-long hose connected to an illegal loading point and destroyed several illegal refining sites, confiscating over 21,500 litres of crude oil.
  • In Bayelsa State, troops intercepted a truck loaded with 45,000 litres of stolen Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO).
  • Three suspected oil thieves were apprehended in connection with the truck.
  • In Akwa Ibom State, troops intercepted a tanker truck suspected to be conveying over 16,500 litres of stolen crude oil.
  • In Delta State, troops discovered over 1,250 litres of illegally refined AGO in Toyota Camry vehicles and 1,175 litres of stolen crude oil hidden in the bush.

Statistics:

  • 21 illegal refineries were dismantled.
  • 36 crude oil thieves were arrested.
  • Over 591,000 litres of stolen products were confiscated.
  • 15-kilometre-long hose was discovered connected to an illegal loading point in Rivers State.
  • Over 21,500 litres of crude oil were confiscated in Rivers State.
  • 45,000 litres of stolen AGO were intercepted in Bayelsa State.
  • 16,500 litres of stolen crude oil were suspected to be conveyed in Akwa Ibom State.
  • Over 1,250 litres of illegally refined AGO were discovered in Delta State.
  • 1,175 litres of stolen crude oil were hidden in the bush in Delta State.

Sources:

  • Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations.
  • Military Operational Press Release.

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