The Air Component of Operation Delta Safe continues to execute air strikes with notable efficacy against the illicit activities of economic saboteurs within the Niger Delta Region.
According to a statement issued by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, aerial operations conducted from April 12th to 13th, 2024, targeted specific locations in Rivers State, resulting in a significant degradation of the capabilities of individuals involved in illegal crude oil extraction and transportation.
Gabkwet reported that during the operation, an active illegal refining site was identified and neutralized in the Idama community.
Additionally, armed reconnaissance missions conducted over Yellow Island and Cawthorne Channel identified and intercepted four boats laden with unlawfully refined petroleum products, which were subsequently rendered inoperable.
Further reconnaissance efforts were carried out over Ogbomkiri, Arugbana, Ivy Island, and Samkiri, leading to the discovery and elimination of illegal refining activities.
At Arugbana, perpetrators attempting to establish an illegal refining site dispersed upon the approach of military aircraft, while multiple illicit sites were identified and eradicated in Samkiri.
In total, Gabkwet indicated that seven illegal refining sites and four boats were located and neutralized throughout the two-day operation.
These decisive actions, he said, underscored the commitment of the military to combatting economic sabotage and protecting vital resources within the Niger Delta Region.
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