NAF Airstrikes Destroy Over 100 Illegal Refining Sites in Major Crackdown on Oil Theft in Niger Delta
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed over 100 illegal refining sites in intensified air operations across the Niger Delta, as part of its ongoing crackdown on crude oil theft and sabotage of national economic assets.
Acting through the 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG), which oversees the Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS), the NAF recorded sweeping successes between January and May 2025. During this period, the Air Component executed 173 missions and 265 sorties, amassing approximately 270 flying hours in support of joint military operations and independent airstrikes across key oil-producing states—Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River.
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In the course of the air raids, over 100 illegal refining sites were destroyed alongside 53 boats, 74 cooking tanks, two reservoirs, and multiple vehicles used in transporting stolen crude. These strategic strikes significantly disrupted the logistics and operational capacity of criminal networks active in locations such as Buguma, Imo River, Port Harcourt, Okrika, Egbema/Ohaji, and the Trans Niger Pipeline corridor.
The air interdictions are part of broader national efforts to tackle oil-related militancy, environmental pollution, and the theft of strategic resources—critical to Nigeria’s economic survival.
According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, the success of the air campaign reflects the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and restoring environmental integrity in the Niger Delta.
“While promoting civil-military cooperation and community development, the kinetic component of these operations remains crucial to dismantling entrenched criminal networks,” he noted.
NAF reaffirmed its resolve to maintain operational momentum in the region, assuring that all measures would be sustained to secure Nigeria’s oil-rich heartland and ensure long-term economic stability.
By PRNigeria
