As part of its intensified campaign against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted airstrikes on illegal refining sites along the Imo River in Rivers State on September 13, 2024.
In a statement Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force Group Captain Kabiru Ali said the air interdiction missions were carried out by the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe and resulted in the destruction of key sites used for illegal oil refining.
The first mission, which provided close air support to ground troops near the Imo River, involved armed reconnaissance in the Owaza and Uzaku areas.
During the operation, an active illegal refining site was discovered in Uzaku, leading to the destruction of four IRS tanks and two canoes used by criminals.
In a second mission, adverse weather conditions redirected NAF aircraft to the Obuzor section of the Imo River. Armed reconnaissance in the Obuzor, Owaza, Osuaku, and Obiaku areas resulted in the destruction of 12 IRS tanks, jerrycans, and other equipment involved in illegal refining activities.
The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its commitment to conducting air operations against oil thieves and economic saboteurs in the Niger Delta. The NAF also urged law-abiding citizens to support security efforts aimed at curbing these criminal activities.
