Troops Destroy 27 Bunkering Sites, Arrest 43 Suspects in Niger Delta
A coordinated anti-crude oil theft operation by troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has led to the arrest of 43 suspects and the dismantling of 27 illegal bunkering sites across the Niger Delta.
The operation, carried out in partnership with other security agencies from May 26 to June 8, 2025, also yielded over 161,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.
A statement by Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of the Division Army Public relations today.
In Bayelsa State, soldiers discovered multiple illegal refining hubs in Zarama-Joinkrama 4 and Biseni communities. Among items recovered were cooking ovens, generators, metal reservoirs, and tens of thousands of litres of stolen crude and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).
Further discoveries in Southern Ijaw and Ekeremor LGAs included over 70 industrial pipes, a boat engine, and refined products hidden beneath timber. Two suspects fled the scene during the operation.
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In Rivers State, military units intercepted large quantities of stolen Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) transported in boats and barges. Eight suspects were arrested, and several wooden vessels were seized in areas including Okrika, Ahoada West, Degema, and Omoku.
Troops also impounded a truck at Oyigbo loaded with 3,000 litres of stolen crude concealed in sacks, and recovered over 2,700 litres of illegally refined kerosene near the waterside in Omoku.
In Akwa Ibom, troops apprehended suspects transporting over 1,900 litres of AGO and 840 litres of PMS using private vehicles. Similarly, in Delta State’s Warri South and Sapele LGAs, security forces uncovered illegal refining sites, seized two wooden boats filled with crude, and arrested four suspects in possession of stolen condensates.
Commending the troops’ efforts, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, praised their dedication to dismantling oil theft networks and urged them to maintain momentum in safeguarding national assets.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to ending economic sabotage and restoring stability and environmental safety to the oil-producing region.
By PRNigeria
