Nigerian Army Dismantles 24 Illegal Refineries, Arrests 29 Oil Thieves in Massive Operation

Nigerian Army Dismantles 24 Illegal Refineries, Arrests 29 Oil Thieves in Massive Operation

The Nigerian Army has taken decisive action against illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta region, arresting 29 suspected oil thieves and dismantling 24 illegal refineries as part of an ongoing security operation. The operation, which spanned several states, was conducted by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with other security agencies.

According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Jonah Danjuma, between February 3 and 9, 2025, troops targeted key areas along the Imo River and other parts of the Niger Delta. The military successfully deactivated numerous illegal refining sites, destroyed refining equipment, and recovered stolen petroleum products.

Key highlights of the operation include the destruction of 113 drum pots and 83 drum receivers, as well as the demobilization of 11 boats. Over 60,000 litres of stolen petroleum products were seized during the raids. In the Imo River region alone, six illegal refining sites were dismantled, and more than 18,000 litres of stolen crude and petroleum products were recovered.

Successful Raids in Various Regions

In Obigbo, Rivers State, troops discovered a hidden reservoir containing over 1,000 litres of stolen crude oil, as well as 100 sacks filled with about 1,500 litres of illegally refined products. Similarly, a raid in Buguma, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, uncovered an illegal refining site with two large pots and over 9,000 litres of stolen crude.

The operation also extended to Ebocha Well 5, where military personnel found 28 locally made ovens, 5,900 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 3,500 litres of stolen crude. In the Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, troops uncovered an illegal site with a 200-metre hose and 1,500 litres of stolen petroleum.

Delta and Bayelsa States Also Targeted

Troops in Delta State, acting on a tip-off, discovered over 2,800 litres of stolen crude in Okpai Oluchi, Ndokwa East Local Government Area. In Bayelsa State, the military dismantled two illegal refining sites and intercepted 2,500 litres of AGO in sacks. Further, in Akwa Ibom State, security forces continue to maintain a strong presence to prevent the operation of illegal refining activities.

The army’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to combat oil theft and economic sabotage in the region. Troops have warned that their crackdown on illegal refining will continue until the problem is eradicated.

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring security in the Niger Delta and dismantling the illicit oil trade that has long plagued the region, signaling an ongoing battle against economic sabotage.