The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully destroyed multiple clusters of illegal crude oil refining sites in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State. The precision operation, carried out on 7 October 2025, was based on credible intelligence and formed part of ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF aircraft identified active refining sites hidden within a densely forested area near Owaza. The sites, which were completely isolated with no visible human presence, were struck with precision-guided munitions, effectively neutralising the illegal operations.
Following the airstrikes, NAF’s attention was drawn to claims by a local group alleging that a gin distillery in Umuebele was affected, although no casualties were reported. In line with its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP), the Air Force has initiated steps to verify the report.
Ejodame reaffirmed that the NAF remains committed to transparency, accountability, and adherence to international best practices, ensuring that all operations are intelligence-driven and conducted with the utmost regard for civilian safety.
He reiterated that the NAF will continue to fulfil its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting other security agencies in combating criminal activities across the country.
