Troops Destroy 18 Illegal Refineries, 45 Ovens, 37 Storage Tanks in N/Delta
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have intensified their crackdown on crude oil theft and environmental sabotage, destroying 18 illegal refining sites, 45 crude oil cooking ovens, and 37 storage tanks across the Niger Delta region within one week.
This was revealed in a statement issued on 22 May 2025 by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, who provided a breakdown of ongoing military operations between 15 and 22 May 2025.
According to the report, the troops also uncovered 30 dugout pits, 16 boats, 11 drums, and recovered a total of 550,350 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,710 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 350 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK). The operations were conducted in Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa States.
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In addition, 51 suspects were arrested for involvement in crude oil theft and other related crimes. Recovered items included pumping machines, drilling equipment, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and four vehicles.
“These operations are part of the armed forces’ commitment to eliminate criminal enterprises sabotaging the nation’s oil assets and economy,” General Kangye said. “The destruction of illegal refining infrastructure is not only about halting oil theft—it is about protecting the environment and livelihoods of law-abiding citizens in the Niger Delta.”
He added that troops also arrested seven suspected drug peddlers in Warri LGA of Delta State and eight vandals in Rivers, Delta, and Akwa Ibom States, who have all been handed over to the appropriate authorities.
The Defence Headquarters urged local communities to support the ongoing efforts by providing credible information, emphasizing that tackling oil theft and economic sabotage remains a top national security priority.
By PRNigeria
