Troops dismantle more illegal refineries, seize stolen products, arrest suspects in Niger Delta

In a continued effort to combat economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division have intensified their operations against illegal refining activities.

A recent clearance operation, led by the 29 Battalion and supported by other security agencies, resulted in the deactivation of over thirteen illegal refining sites along the fringes of the Imo River.

In a statement, Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma said this area, straddling the border between Abia and Rivers States, is a dense, forested region notorious for illegal bunkering operations, often hidden from aerial surveillance.

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He said during the operation, troops discovered seven large dugouts containing over 250,000 litres of stolen crude oil.

Additionally, more than 10,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and other related products were confiscated.

In a separate operation, troops from the 2 Brigade intercepted a Toyota bus, with registration number UYY 962 MJ, in Abeapo Community along the Onna-Eket Road in Akwa Ibom State.

The vehicle was found carrying over 1,000 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO, concealed in more than twenty bags.

Three suspects were arrested in connection with the crime and are currently undergoing interrogation.

Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, commended the troops for their continued success in the fight against illegal activities in the region.

He urged those involved in criminal activities to abandon their illicit practices and seek legitimate livelihoods or risk facing severe legal consequences.

He also emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure and resources.