NIGER DELTA — In a major operation aimed at curbing oil theft and economic sabotage, the Nigerian Army has successfully dismantled 14 illegal refining sites and seized approximately 350,000 litres of stolen petroleum products in the Niger Delta region. The operation, carried out as part of ongoing security efforts under Operation Delta Safe, marks another significant step in the military’s campaign to protect national assets and restore environmental integrity in oil-producing communities.
According to credible information gathered, the raid was conducted by troops deployed across Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta States—areas notorious for illegal crude oil refining and pipeline vandalism. The illegal sites, which had been operating discreetly in swampy and hard-to-reach locations, were discovered through actionable intelligence and surveillance.
During the operation, troops also uncovered equipment used in the illegal refining process, including metal tanks, large cooking pots, plastic storage drums, and makeshift reservoirs. All discovered items were promptly destroyed in line with standard military procedure to prevent reactivation by criminal elements.
A senior military official, who spoke under condition of anonymity, stated that the confiscated petroleum products — including crude oil and refined diesel — were to be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution of those involved. The official further emphasized that the Army remains committed to flushing out economic saboteurs threatening Nigeria’s energy infrastructure and environmental safety.
This latest success underscores the persistent threat posed by illegal oil refining, which not only results in massive revenue loss for the country but also causes long-term damage to the environment and public health. The Nigerian Army has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance towards such criminal enterprises and urged local communities to support ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information.
As the fight against oil theft intensifies, stakeholders continue to call for stronger collaboration between security agencies, oil companies, and host communities to ensure sustainable peace and economic stability in the region.