Troops of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army have foiled an illegal petroleum bunkering operation in the Lekki Free Zone area of Lagos State, arresting 14 suspected oil thieves and recovering a tanker, vehicles, and other equipment.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of April 16, 2026, was carried out based on credible intelligence. Military sources said the troops conducted a swift and coordinated raid at about 1:30 a.m., intercepting the suspects while they were actively siphoning petroleum products.
Investigations revealed that the suspects had constructed an illegal connection using a long pipeline stretching from the high sea to a tanker concealed within a bush. The siphoning operation was powered by a generator-driven pumping machine used to transfer petroleum products into the tanker.
Upon sighting the advancing troops, the suspects reportedly attempted to flee but were promptly subdued and arrested by the soldiers.
Items recovered at the scene include a tanker truck loaded with siphoned petroleum products, a Lexus Highlander SUV with registration number APP 67 JQ Lagos, a Ford Hilux vehicle with registration number BY 117 FST Lagos, a pumping machine, a 40-horsepower boat engine, as well as large quantities of industrial hosepipes and other bunkering equipment.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations against oil theft and other forms of economic sabotage in the country.
