In a renewed effort to curb oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and related crimes in the Niger Delta Region (NDR), troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have intensified both kinetic and non-kinetic operations, leading to the deactivation of eight illegal refineries and the seizure of over 18,000 litres of stolen crude oil.
According to a statement by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 6 Division Lieut. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies between September 21 and October 5, 2025, resulted in multiple arrests and the disruption of attempts to re-establish illegal bunkering hubs across several states.
In Rivers State, troops raided a newly constructed illegal refining site around Joinkrama 4 in Ahoada West Local Government Area (LGA), destroying receivers, ovens, drums, and pipelines, while recovering over 3,500 litres of stolen crude. Acting on credible intelligence, troops also intercepted a red Mercedes-Benz vacuum truck, registration number AHD 925 XA, loaded with 3,200 litres of stolen crude along Aba Road in Oyigbo LGA. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled upon sighting the troops.
Further clearance operations along the fringes of the Imo River led to the dismantling of another refining site containing three drum pots, two receivers, and over 2,000 litres of stolen crude oil concealed in sacks. Additional illegal sites were neutralised in Odogwa (Etche LGA), Obeama Uzomiri Waterside (Oyigbo LGA), and the Obiafor Oil Field (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA).
In Akwa Ibom State, troops intercepted two Toyota Camry vehicles with registration numbers ANA 495 CK and AKD 233 EQ, transporting 120 nylon bags containing over 3,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) along Ikot Okoro, Abak LGA. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the act.
Similarly, in Bayelsa State, troops discovered over 950 litres of stolen petroleum products at an abandoned building along Kemezia Road in Biseni Community, Yenagoa LGA.
Commending the troops for their professionalism and resilience, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, reiterated the Army’s zero tolerance for economic sabotage in the region. He urged criminal elements to desist from illegal activities and embrace lawful means of livelihood.
Major General Emekah affirmed that under his command, the Division would ensure that “our forests remain green and waters blue,” while sustaining the tempo of operations to guarantee a safe and stable environment for socio-economic activities in the Niger Delta.
