Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified their efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region. Between January 6 and 12, 2025, the troops dismantled 32 illegal refineries, arrested 15 suspected oil thieves, and recovered over 60,000 litres of stolen petroleum products across various states in the region.

Large-Scale Operations Target Illegal Refineries

In a statement issued on Sunday night by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 6 Division, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, the operations were detailed as part of a broader crackdown on economic sabotage.

The raids, conducted in Degema Local Government Area, uncovered seven illegal refining sites around the Bille general area. Additional operations spanned locations such as Asa, Okoloma, Ukwa, Ozaa, Abiama, Obuzor, and Oyigbo.

“These efforts resulted in the destruction of 32 artisanal refineries, deactivation of 14 boats used for criminality, arrest of 15 oil thieves, and the recovery of over 60,000 litres of stolen products,” the statement noted.

Key Arrests and Recoveries

1. Degema LGA: Troops discovered and destroyed multiple drum pots, receivers, and equipment used in refining stolen crude oil. Over 19,000 litres of stolen products were recovered in this operation.
2. Etche LGA: In Odagwa, three boats loaded with over 12,000 litres of stolen crude oil were intercepted, and three suspects were arrested. These individuals are now in custody for further investigation.
3. Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA: An illegal refining site with a reservoir containing over 1,200 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) was shut down. Additionally, sacks holding over 1,600 litres of crude oil were seized.
4. Buguma, Asari-Toru LGA: Troops dismantled two illegal refining sites and intercepted a wooden boat carrying 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil. Five suspects linked to these operations were handed over to authorities for prosecution.
5. Bayelsa State: An illegal refining site was uncovered at Baberegbene in Southern Ijaw LGA, and a wooden boat transporting over 1,500 litres of stolen crude oil was intercepted. Further raids in Emago-Kugbo and Oluasiri in Nembe LGA led to the recovery of additional stolen products.
6. Imo River Stretch: The operations along this stretch deactivated 10 illegal refining sites, with the destruction of associated equipment and the recovery of over 19,000 litres of stolen petroleum products.

Strengthened Presence in Delta and Akwa Ibom States

The troops maintained a strong presence in Delta and Akwa Ibom states, aiming to disrupt the activities of economic saboteurs. The Army has emphasized its commitment to fostering a conducive environment for seamless oil exploration activities in these areas.

Commendation and Future Commitment

The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, lauded the troops for their dedication to combating oil theft and sabotage. He highlighted the importance of sustaining the momentum to ensure the region’s economic stability.

“The Nigerian Army is committed to denying criminals freedom of action in the region as part of broader efforts to safeguard the nation’s economic resources,” Abdussalam stated. He also emphasized the need to increase oil production and protect national assets against sabotage.

Impact on Economic Sabotage

The efforts of the Nigerian Army have been widely acknowledged as critical in curbing oil theft, a persistent issue affecting the country’s economic resources. By dismantling illegal refineries and recovering stolen products, the Army is actively contributing to the reduction of illicit activities in the oil-rich Niger Delta.

The operations serve as a warning to economic saboteurs, signaling that the Army will continue to employ all available resources to combat criminality in the region. As the crackdown continues, security agencies aim to restore order and create an environment conducive to economic growth and development.