The Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has conducted targeted airstrikes resulting in the destruction of 13 illegal oil refining sites and 7 Cotonou boats across Rivers, Bayelsa, and Imo states. In a statement Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet said these operations, aimed at curbing illicit oil activities, have also thwarted attempts to siphon suspected crude oil products from surface tanks.
The series of coordinated strikes began near Imo River on 18 June 2024, where 7 overhead tanks were dismantled and several suspected bunkerers were observed fleeing the scene. The following day, air operations were extended to Wilcourt in Rivers State after an illegal refining site and a canoe laden with illegally refined products were detected, along with several gunboats.
In Bayelsa State, responding to intelligence reports, aircrews identified and neutralized illegal refining sites located approximately 6km from Tunu. Precision strikes were executed to dismantle these facilities, disrupting ongoing illicit activities in the region.
A significant incident occurred on 22 June 2024, when air crews spotted 5 J5 buses, potentially reconfigured into mini tankers, attempting to siphon illegally refined products from the banks of Imo River. Responding swiftly, the crew destroyed the nearby illegal refining sites supplying these buses. The buses were observed dispersing, with some seeking cover under nearby foliage to evade detection.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, emphasized that these successful operations against economic saboteurs and oil thieves were made possible by enhanced intelligence capabilities, improved air-to-ground coordination, and the Nigerian Air Force’s heightened agility and resilience. He reiterated the commitment to sustain these efforts until the activities of these saboteurs are significantly curtailed.
The operations underscore the ongoing commitment of Operation Delta Safe to safeguarding Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and combating illegal oil refining activities across the Niger Delta region.
