NAF Destroys 6 Illegal Oil Refineries, 5 Boats in Rivers
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its air operations against oil thieves in the Niger Delta region, destroying six illegal refining sites and five Cotonou boats in Rivers State in the past three days.
NAF spokesman Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet said in a statement on Tuesday that the airstrikes were part of Operation Delta Safe, an ongoing military operation to combat oil theft and other maritime crimes in the Niger Delta.
The airstrikes were carried out after NAF intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft spotted the illegal refineries and boats in the area.
NAF fighter jets were then deployed to strike the targets, destroying them completely.
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“Similar strikes were also carried out at Krakama in Rivers, on the same day three Cotonou Boats sighted conveying suspected illegally refined products.
“On Nov. 13, the NAF aircraft also struck some sites at Dariama Village in Rivers State following intelligence report of illegal refining activities near the location.
“On arrival, three IRS with tanks, pipes and pumping machines as well as Cotonou Boats loaded with suspected illegally refined products were sighted, engaged and subsequently destroyed,” he said.
Gabkwet said the intensified air operations should be seen as proactive measures to safeguard the economic interests of the nation and deter criminal elements involved in oil theft.
He added that the NAF, alongside sister services and other security agencies had remained committed in its efforts at securing vital government resources and infrastructures in the Niger Delta Region and beyond.
By PRNigeria
